| Common trees to our area include the Tulip Poplar (Liriodendron
tulipfera) and many species of oaks. The Tulip Poplar, Tennessee's
state tree, blossoms in the spring with large, tulip-like flowers.
A fast grower, this tree requires sunlight and is often among the
first to reclaim vacant soil. Tulip Poplars have somewhat smooth,
gray bark and distinctively shaped leaves. In contrast, oaks often
comprise older forests and are slow growing. Most oaks have acorns
that provide food for various wildlife including deer and squirrels.
A common oak on the lake trail is the Chinquepin Oak (Quercus muehlenbergii).
Look for white, almost flaky bark and chestnut-like leaves. |