Yellow Poplar
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to medium-coarse uniform texture with a plain flat-sawn cathedral pattern and a small knot/growth feature
Color & Appearance
Light yellowish-brown to cream-colored sapwood with streaks of greenish-brown, purple, or gray in the heartwood, exhibiting moderate natural luster and darkening to a warm brown patina upon prolonged exposure to light
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 2.00 to 4.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, approximately 1 to 3 years old
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely available, highly sustainable and fast-growing species with strong FSC availability
Common Uses
Interior furniture framing, cabinetry, plywood core, millwork, interior trim, paint-grade moldings, and general construction
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; cuts, planes, turns, and sands very easily with hand and machine tools, though sharp blades are needed to avoid fuzzing on softer growth rings
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, paints, and clear finishes exceptionally well; sanding sealer recommended prior to staining due to variable absorbency
Notable Features
Lightweight, stable when properly dried, takes paint extremely well, exhibits characteristic mineral streaks ranging from green to purple
