The Hirsel Tulip Tree

 

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According to John Evelyn in 1664, the first tulip trees (Liriodendron tulipifera) were brought to Britain  "by John Tradescant, under the name of the Tulip-tree (from the likeness of its flowers)" about the middle of the 17th century. 

Evelyn continues that the leaves of the tree are "of a very peculiar shape, as if the points were cut off",  which is an accurate description of this particular species.

Early specimens

Unfortunately the exact date of introduction is somewhat uncertain, although it was grown by Bishop Compton at Fulham in 1688.  One of the earliest trees was in the gardens of the Earl of Peterborough at Parsons Green, Fulham, and was described in 1776 as "an old tree quite destroyed by others which overhang it."  Unfortunately, most of the early trees have gone, but one that remains is the impressive specimen still growing in the grounds of the Hirsel in Coldstream.

One of the oldest still standing

In 1840 Loudon referred to the "Hirsel Tulip Tree at the seat of the Earl of Home", which was at that time "100 years old and 20 feet in girth 3 feet from the ground".  This puts the planting date of the tree around 1740, making it perhaps one of the oldest specimens still standing.

Elwes and Henry in 1907 were in communication with Mr. Cairns, head gardener at the Hirsel, and by 1903, "it was slowly decaying, some of the larger branches being gone, but that what remained carry a large amount of healthy foliage, and flowers more or less every year".
 
This remarkable tree was still in good health in the spring of 2006, although the walled garden around the tree has now been abandoned. This has the peculiar effect of leaving this fine specimen growing in what feels like a wasteland. The tree with its hollow stem now has a girth of nearly 7.8 metres (26 feet) at 1.2 metres (4 feet) above the ground, and is a fantastic example of its type.

Where to see the Hirsel Tulip Tree:

The tree is in Hirsel Country Park, on the northern outskirts of Coldstream, Scottish Borders.  Signposted access is off the A697.  The tulip tree stands in the middle of the walled garden.  The country park is open for public access throughout the year.  Parking charges apply.

Image: copyright Archie Miles