Yellow Poplar (Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable, with low resistance to decay and insect attack.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to medium-irregular grain with a fine, even texture. The boards show flat-sawn characteristics with mineral streak staining visible on the left pillar.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from light yellowish-brown to olive-green or dark purplish-brown (mineral streaks), while the sapwood is a pale creamy white. The wood tends to darken to a deeper brown over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable, with low resistance to decay and insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 5.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively recent, likely milled and finished within the last 1 to 5 years based on the condition of the surface and lack of deep patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List. Widely abundant, sustainable, and frequently available.
Common Uses
Interior trim, cabinetry, furniture framing, plywood, molding, and painted millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptionally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and paints very well, though it can sometimes tear out during planing if dull blades are used.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paints, stains, and clears (polyurethane, lacquer, oil) exceptionally well. Due to its softness, a sanding sealer is often recommended before finishing.
Notable Features
Known for distinct greenish heartwood and dark mineral streaks (often called tulip poplar). It is dimensionally stable and lightweight.