Yellow Poplar (also known as Tulipwood or Tulip Poplar)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay when left in contact with the ground or moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to medium-straight grain with a fine, even texture. The image shows a prominent flat-sawn knot/swirl figure with circular growth rings and swirling heartwood transitions.
Color & Appearance
The sapwood is creamy white, while the heartwood displays characteristic multicolored variations including light green, yellow, brown, and occasional purplish or bluish-gray mineral streaks (evident in the sample). It darkens to a deep brown over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay when left in contact with the ground or moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.50 to $4.50 per board foot (Domestic hardwood, generally inexpensive).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, estimated less than 1 year old based on surface freshness and lack of heavy oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern; abundant, widely available, and sustainably harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Interior trim, cabinetry, furniture, framing, plywood, molding, and painted millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; cuts, planes, glues, and takes paint or stain very well. Can be prone to fuzzy surfaces if dull blades are used due to its relative softness.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paints exceptionally well due to fine texture. For clear finishes, water-based polyurethane or lacquer helps preserve the original greenish hues before they amber into brown.
Notable Features
Known for wide color variations ranging from bright yellow to deep green and purple mineral streaks, light weight, and dimensional stability once dry.
