The tulip poplar tree is not a poplar tree and not related to tulip flowers but is actually a member of the Magnolia family.  These trees can reach up to 120 ft tall and prefer full sun locations with rich, moist soil that drains well. Due to the rapid growth of this tree, pruning is essential. Prune out dead and weak growth in late winter to early spring and do a thorough thinning every few years.