Poplar (Yellow Poplar)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable (Non-durable in ground contact, low decay and insect resistance)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to irregular grain with a medium texture and a plain flat-sawn or cathedral pattern showing subtle variations in growth rings.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood tends to be a light yellowish brown with occasional streaks of purple, green, black, or blue. Sapwood is a pale yellowish white. Colors tend to darken to a deeper brown with amber tones upon light exposure over time.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable (Non-durable in ground contact, low decay and insect resistance)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.50 to $4.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent lumber, estimated between 1 to 5 years old based on clean edges and standard mill conditioning.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern, highly sustainable, widely available, and fast-growing in North America.
Common Uses
Interior trim, cabinetry, furniture framing, plywood, pallets, and painted millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Cuts, planes, and glues easily, though sharp blades are needed to prevent fuzzy surfaces due to its softness.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts paints and stains very well. Due to greenish/purplish tones in the raw heartwood, dark stains or opaque finishes are frequently used.
Notable Features
Lightweight, stable when dry, low bending strength relative to weight, and takes paint exceptionally well.
