The tupliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera L.) is a large deciduous tree which belongs to the Magnoliaceae family. The genus (Liriodendron) derives from the Greek leiron, meaning lily, and dendron, meaning tree, due to its flowers’ similarity to lilies (lilium sp.). The specific epithet also refers to the flowers, in this case the form, which is similar to the tulip (Tulipa sp.) The tuliptree is native to North America – the eastern part of the United States from Florida to New York – and is commonly found in the mixed deciduous forests of the Appalachian mountains. Imported into Europe in the 17th century, it appeared in Italy in 1760, and in Lucca (thanks to princess Elisa) at the beginning of the 1800s. There are many of these trees along the city walls and in various historic parks, including very large specimens. There are two trees at Villa Querci in Saltocchio, one at Villa Minutoli in Vorno, as well as the tree at Villa Reale.
