Types of trees in Kentucky are ones that enjoy growing in over 12 acres of forest land. This means many species of trees in this state belong to over 30 tree families.
In this state alone, you will find over 50 national parks where these trees are beautifully displayed, which are ones that add a beautiful touch of their wild yet graceful aesthetics. Here are some of the trees you can add to your landscape.
Contents
A Full List of Types of Trees in Kentucky
1. Tulip Tree
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The scientific name of this tree is called Liriodendron Tulipifera, and it has a unique appearance, and you will likely come across it growing almost everywhere. It is a slow-growing tree that takes longer to reach its ideal height.
This tree gets its name from the appearance of its leaves, which are shaped like tulips. The blooms of this tree carry the day as they are creamy yellow, one of the reasons why many people love to grow it. On another note, when you plant them, these trees are from the types that will grow 150 feet tall, and provide shades for you.
2. White Oak
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Quercus Alba is a beautiful tree with a short trunk and long horizontal branches. It is one of the most common trees growing in Kentucky.
This tree has dark green leaves that turn blue-green in late fall to winter. On maturity, oak trees produce acorns for at least 50 to 100 years. This is one of the most loved trees with a prolonged maturity period.
Moreover, in order to see it grow, you must give the right requirements, which are locating it in full sun, and well-draining soil, that is more acidic.
3. Red Maple Trees
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Acer Rubrum is a fast-growing tree that grows tall and straight. It is native to the eastern deciduous forest and grows commonly in Kentucky. The beautiful red color of the foliage and flowers makes these maple trees stand out.
This tree grows best in a sunny location, adapting to different types of soils, and the reason why these trees would be placed around roads is that it is pollution tolerant. In addition, you will also see this tree thrive if it is placed in cooler climates, and when the seasons change, they would start changing colors.
4. Black Gum
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Eucalyptus ovata is a common tree species found in most homesteads in Kentucky. It has a smooth, glossy bark that most trees do not have. The leaves and fruits of this tree stand out as they are egg-shaped and bell-shaped.
This tree features an ideal grain pattern that is useful in its uses, and even with this matter, it produces little fruit that is edible and not toxic. The reason why most people like to add it to their landscape is that it grows so tall and spreads wide as well, which would add such a great touch to the landscape.
5. American Basswood
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Tilia Americana is a common tree in Kentucky and its surrounding areas grown for its aesthetic value. It has large, heart-shaped leaves that are larger than most trees. It grows easily on deep and moist soils and can start from seed without any problem.
In spring, you would see these trees thriving and producing their little white to yellow colored flowers, which would look very beautiful when they start opening up. These flowers are pollinated with the help of pollinators, which would start to activate through the nectar of the flower and blossom.
6. Black Cherry
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Prunus Serotina is among the largest indigenous trees in Kentucky. You will find it in national parks and forests, providing food to the birds and other wildlife.
This tree has roots that grow very deep and should not be planted next to the home. The deep roots will cause cracks in your house’s foundation, this would show you the aggressive growth that it has.
These cherry fruits are not for human consumption as they contain toxins, which is why you should be very strict on the matter if you have this tree and kids or pets, they should stay away from the berries for any dangerous intoxication. They are best left for the birds and wildlife to feed on them.
7. American Beech
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Agus Grandifolia grows slowly, taking up to 60 years to reach maturity, depending on the growing conditions you provide. When it hits maturity, it starts to flower. As long as it takes to mature, it can live for over 300 years while retaining a smooth bark.
The reason why growing this tree is great is that it will grow so tall and even spread wide; however, you should also provide it with the right care, which is humid soil, because this tree has drought sensitivity, but also, it should be placed in full to partial sun requirements.
8. Eastern Redcedar
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Juniperus virginiana is shorter than other trees that grow in Kentucky. These trees are best grown on the highways, along the fence, or driveway; in addition, they thrive in many different types of soil, withstanding many windy conditions.
These trees would produce little berries that are edible but be careful because they would start becoming intoxicating when you eat them in large amounts. However, if you plant them, around your house, you will see birds finding shelter and eating the berries.
9. Bald Cypress
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Taxodium Distichum is a unique tree native to Kentucky and reaches up to 70 feet tall. It has an attractive pyramidal shape that is eye-catching. The needle-like foliage is a stunning contrast against the shaggy cinnamon-colored bark.
In the fall, the foliage turns bronze or scarlet before falling off the tree. The bark peels off in long strips remaining clear in winter. On another note, this tree is an excellent ornamental addition to your garden or landscape due to its natural beauty.
10. Kentucky Coffee Tree
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The Kentucky coffeetree is called Gymnocladus dioicus in botany, and this tree is one of the common trees that could be found in Kentucky that even bears its name. This was the state tree at one point, but it was replaced with the Tulip tree.
You will likely find this coffee tree growing on most open grounds in the Bluegrass. During fall, the foliage changes color to a beautiful yellow with clusters of dark maturing pods.
Conclusion
Types of trees in Kentucky are as listed above, and this list is great, even though there are many other species you can successfully grow. Before you start your seedlings, here are a few points you should remember:
- Kentucky is second after Florida in producing the most diverse hardwood tree species in the U.S.
- This can be a business opportunity if you live in this state and have a big farm where you would like to grow some trees.
- Kentucky is home to some of the oldest trees encouraging a rich ecosystem since the trees provide shelter and food for wildlife.
- Our favorite tree species that even a new gardener can easily grow include tulip, coffee tree, oak, and cypress.
Finally, you have the information; you can get down to business and grow some healthy trees! Now the question is, what tree do you wish to plant? You can check out the most popular types of trees you can plant in your garden if you live in Las Vegas.
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