Yellow Poplar (Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; non-resistant to decay and vulnerable to insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to medium-coarse uniform grain with a plain flat-sawn and quarter-sawn appearance visible across the boards.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood can range from yellowish brown to olive green, sometimes with streaks of purple, red, or black (often called rainbow poplar); sapwood is a creamy white, displaying moderate luster and darkening slightly to a deeper brown over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; non-resistant to decay and vulnerable to insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 2.00 to 4.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern lumber, estimated between 1 to 5 years old based on clean mill marks and surface condition.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), highly sustainable and widely available with no CITES restrictions.
Common Uses
Interior trim, cabinetry, furniture framing, plywood, pallets, and general utility millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; cuts, planes, glues, and takes paint or stain easily, though its softness can occasionally lead to fuzzy surfaces if dull blades are used during sanding.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paint exceptionally well; for clear finishes, oil-based polyurethanes or lacquers work well, though staining can sometimes appear blotchy requiring a pre-stain conditioner.
Notable Features
Lightweight, stable when dry, excellent dimensional stability, and known for dramatic color variations ranging from green to purple streaks.