Researchers have discovered a unique type of wood in Tulip Trees, which could significantly enhance carbon sequestration in plantation forests.

The study focused on two species: Liriodendron tulipifera, native to North America, and Liriodendron chinense, found in China and Vietnam.

Tulip Trees diverged from Magnolia Trees 30-50 million years ago, a period that coincided with a notable drop in atmospheric CO2 levels.

Conducted by scientists from Jagiellonian University and the University of Cambridge, the study utilized cryo-scanning electron microscopy to analyze the wood structure.

This research is part of a broader survey examining the evolution of wood ultrastructure across 33 tree species at the Cambridge University Botanic Garden.

Understanding the wood structure is crucial for enhancing carbon capture efforts, as secondary cell walls serve as major carbon reservoirs.

Lead author Dr. Jan Łyczakowski noted that the unique macrofibril structure of Tulip Trees may enhance their effectiveness in carbon storage.

Previous studies indicate that Liriodendrons are fast-growing and have high carbon sequestration rates, making them ideal for carbon plantation schemes.

The research underscores the importance of botanic gardens in facilitating significant scientific studies, providing a diverse range of plant species for research.

The findings of this study were published in the journal New Phytologist, highlighting the relevance of the research conducted during the summer of 2022.

A mature tree can absorb over 48 pounds of carbon dioxide annually, with an acre of mature trees capable of offsetting CO2 produced by a car driven 26,000 miles.