Propagation of an African Tulip Tree

Seed Propagation

• Obtain fresh seeds, if possible, to propagate African tulip tree. Seeds need some light to germinate, so scatter them on top of a layer of moist potting soil, sand or a sand and soil mixture and cover the seeds lightly with the same medium. Top with a thin layer of mulch or cover the seed tray to preserve moisture. Keep the seedbed warm -- 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit -- and water the seeds regularly. Germination can take anywhere from about one to four weeks. When the seedlings are 10 to 12 inches high and have at least four to five leaves, transplant them to the yard. Choose a site that receives full sun and well-drained clay, sandy or loamy soil. African tulip trees prefer slightly acidic soil.

Rooted Cuttings

• Take softwood cuttings from the African tulip tree's new growth areas, during the active growing season. The cutting should have several leaves. Fill a clean container with growing or germinating medium such as perlite or sand. Use a rooting hormone powder, if desired, to enhance root growth. Dip the cut end of the cutting in the hormone powder and plant the cutting in the growing medium. Keep the growing medium moist and mist the cutting every few days. Keep the cuttings out of direct sunlight and at a temperature no colder than 60 to 65 F. Warmer is better. Once the cuttings have established a strong root system, transplant them to the yard.

Root Suckers

• Small plants that spring up around the base of the African tulip tree are suckers. Suckers often look like independent plants, but are actually attached to the tree's horizontal, underground roots on top of or just below the surface of the soil. Dig the suckers up with a small shovel, being careful not to damage the adult African tulip tree and cut the sucker's roots where they attach to the parent plant. Keep as many roots with the suckers as possible. Plant the suckers in the yard as for seeds and rooted cuttings.

Considerations

• African tulip tree has soft wood and limbs that break easily in gusty or high winds. Falling limbs can be hazardous to people and nearby structures. Large areas of the tree's root system grow along the surface of the ground, making lawn mowing difficult. The roots can also crack and break sidewalks and driveways.