Yellow Poplar (Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, closed grain with a fine, even texture. Generally flat-sawn displaying subtle cathedral patterns and some minor knotting.
Color Description
Creamy white to light yellow sapwood; heartwood is typically light olive green to yellowish brown. It tends to darken to a brown/mahogany color upon prolonged exposure to light.
Hardness Rating
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Low-cost furniture frames, cabinetry carcases, interior trim, pallets, crates, plywood, and paper pulp.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 - $4.50 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or modern stock (less than 1-2 years) based on light oxidation and lack of surface patina/wear.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and harvested sustainably; not CITES listed.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes and sands easily, though it can have a tendency to leave fuzzy surfaces if tools are dull. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often features distinct green or purple streaks in the heartwood. It is one of the tallest and straightest-growing hardwoods in North America.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paint exceptionally well. For natural finishes, clear lacquer or polyurethane is recommended, though it may require a sanding sealer due to its porosity.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct pale yellow color with hints of olive-green heartwood and the characteristic fuzzy grain texture in the rough-planed area are hallmark traits of Liriodendron tulipifera.