Poplar (Yellow Poplar)
Liriodendron tulipifera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, uniform grain with a fine to medium texture. Shows a slightly wavy or cathedral appearance around knots as seen in this flat-sawn sample.
Color Description
Light cream to yellowish-brown heartwood with occasional streaks of grey or green. Sapwood is pale white to off-white. It tends to darken or brown with exposure to UV light over time.
Hardness Rating
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to high moisture or ground contact.
Common Uses
Light construction, furniture frames, cabinetry, interior trim, pallets, crates, and plywood. Frequently used as a secondary wood or for painted applications.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 - $4.50 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent, likely less than 5 years since milling. The wood lacks heavy oxidation or silvering, showing fresh-cut pale coloration.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered highly sustainable.
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It takes glue, nails, and screws well, though its softness makes it prone to denting and fuzzy surfaces if using dull blades.
Notable Features
Often referred to as 'paint-grade' hardwood due to its ability to take paint exceptionally well. It has a faint, indistinct scent when being worked.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for paint or solid stains. If clear coating, a sanding sealer is recommended to prevent blotchiness, followed by lacquer or polyurethane.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct pale greenish-yellow hue, soft fine grain, and characteristic tight knot structure are classic indicators of Liriodendron tulipifera.