I like drawing parallels between nature, strategy, and business principles. In this case, Liriodendrons and Leadership.

Perhaps because of my undergraduate degree in Forest Biology, I have always been fascinated by trees and, more specifically, tree roots. Even as a child, I remember being drawn to the exposed roots of downed trees and the intricate patterns they created.

My latest, favorite tree – which was planted around 1766 – is the one pictured above. It is a tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) on George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate in Virginia. During one of my frequent visits to Mt. Vernon last week, I marveled at the large, finger-like roots emanating from its base. As impressive as those visible roots are, they are just part of a deeper, invisible network that supports the massive tree structurally and nutritionally to allow it to reach such awe-inspiring height.

Root systems are the foundation of every tree. They adapt to the condition of the soil, allow trees to bend in the wind, grow towards the sun, and maybe even talk to other trees through what some call the “wood-wide-web,” according to Peter Wohlleben.

Without a strong taproot – the first and primary root that grows from a seed – seedlings will not survive. And as the taproot adjusts to the conditions in the soil and slowly grows deeper and deeper, there is very little to show for its effort on the surface for quite some time. Other roots grow at different angles and branch off in various directions but remain connected and serve one purpose – to eventually support the upward growth of the tree. A tremendous amount of energy is expended to build a foundation that will continue to evolve and allow a tree to ascend for hundreds of years through countless storms and existential threats.

Think of an idea, a company, or a strategy as the seed. For it to grow takes purposeful, patient leadership that encourages and allows the appropriate roots and culture to grow. And just like the roots of the Liriodendron, the foundation needs to be dynamic and adjust to changing conditions, create branches to acquire new talent, skills, and capital, and provide confidence that the deep investment will generate upward growth and success.

This leadership style is complementary to project management approaches such as Lean or Agile and other methods such as Deming’s 14 Key Principles of Management.

I call it the Liriodendron Foundation of Leadership. What would you call it?

What else can we learn from nature to guide leadership strategy? I welcome your comments and ideas. Contact me if you would like to talk.