Tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera); photo by BlueRidgeKitties on Flickr (noncommercial use permitted with attribution / share alike).
Official State Tree of Kentucky
The tulip poplar (Lirodendroan tulipifera) was designated official state tree of Kentucky in 1994 (Indiana and Tennessee also recognize tulip poplar as their state tree). All State Trees
Also a host plant for Kentucky's state butterfly, the tulip poplar is also called tulip tree, yellow poplar, whitewood, and fiddletree. The tulip poplar is the tallest eastern hardwood tree and produces large tulip-like flowers in the spring which have a delightful fragrance of nectar that even attracts birds (including ruby-throated hummingbirds).
