Originally posted as a tulip tree blossom I doubted my accuracy and after another visit to the tree and some research on PBase I'm pretty sure this is a yellow flowering magnolia. The closest variety to this tree that I've found is called an Elizabeth Magnolia, a hybrid between an American and Asian species introduced by the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The tapered buds open to reveal fragrant flowers of an almost translucent primrose yellow in late April to mid May before the large mint green foliage emerges. If you're interested in getting a closer look they are in the Country Grocer parking lot at Chase River.
To see the blossoms at a later stage click HERE
RE_20130422_4807