Kentucky State Tree

Tulip Tree

(Liriodendron tulipifera)

The Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera), designated as the official state tree of Kentucky, is a magnificent deciduous tree renowned for its towering height, distinctive tulip-shaped flowers, and vibrant foliage. Also known as the Tulip Poplar or Yellow Poplar, it graces the landscapes of Kentucky with its tall, straight trunk and striking green leaves that transform into a brilliant yellow in the autumn. In spring, the tree bears showy, cup-shaped, greenish-yellow flowers that resemble tulips, hence its name. The Tulip Tree holds historical and ecological significance in Kentucky, serving as both a symbol of natural beauty and an essential component of the state's forests.