You may be surprised to learn that the Indiana state tree is in fact, a Tulip Tree. That’s right; the Tulip Tree, commonly referred to as a Yellow Poplar, became the Indiana state tree in the year 1931. It blooms Peonies, which is the official state flower. Continue reading to learn some fun facts about the Indiana Tulip Tree and its magnificent physiognomies.
Liriodendron Tulipifera
The scientific name for a Yellow Poplar is Magnoliaceae Liriodendron Tulipifera. Its leaves are shaped like tulips, which is why it is also referred to as a Tulip Tree; even though it doesn’t actually blossom the flower known as Tulips. Instead, a Yellow Poplar blooms small April flowers and Peonies. Between the months of April and June, the Tulip Tree blooms a beautiful yellow-greenish bell-shaped flower with yellow-green petals and an orange or pink-like corolla.
From June through August, the Tulip Tree begins to bloom its Peonies, scientifically known as a Paeonie. These are breathtaking blossoms that come in shades of red, pink, and sometimes white. Their petals come in a variety of single and double forms, creating a layered and depth-like appearance. Peonies are popular grave site flowers.
The bark of a Yellow Poplar is popular because it retains high commercial value. The wood of this tree is exceedingly versatile, as well as, easy to work with and manipulate. It’s frequently used as a substitute for softwoods in furniture and framing construction. It is a lightweight wood that was used in earlier centuries by Native Americans to build canoes. The bark color can range from a light-yellow green to a soft white or light gray.
Yellow Poplars grow to great heights, and offer copious amounts of shade in the summer. It provides endless resources and benefits to people, nature, and the environment alike. This is why they have long been acknowledged in Indiana history. To avoid confusion, learn all the popular names of the Indiana state tree; such as Tulip-tree, Tulip Poplar, Tulip Magnolia, Yellow Poplar, Tulip Tree, White Poplar, Whitewood, and more hyphenated variations of these names. No matter what they are called, Hoosiers everywhere should be proud of this magnificent state tree.
For more information about the Indiana State Tree, or general tree service in Indianapolis, call Budget Tree Care at 317-590-1842 today. Curt Scott and his team of professional and certified tree specialists are happy to answer any questions you have about trees on your property. We offer residential tree services, such as tree trimming, tree removal, and stump grinding; as well as, commercial tree work, including lot clearing, fertilizing, dead-wooding, pruning, and more. Call 317-590-1842 for a free estimate or information about tree services in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding areas.