Tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera): photo by Kew on Flickr on Flickr (noncommercial use permitted with attribution / share alike).
Official State Tree of Tennessee
The tulip poplar (Liriodendron Tulipifera) was recognized as the official state tree of Tennessee in 1947. Tennessee also recognizes eastern red cedar (evergreen tree) and the yellowwood (bicentennial tree) as symbols of the state. All State Trees
According to the Tennessee Blue Book; "The tulip poplar was chosen because it grows from one end of the state to the other” and “was extensively used by the pioneers of the state to construct houses, barns, and other necessary farm buildings.” Kentucky and Indiana also recognize the tulip poplar as a state tree.
