Yellow Poplar
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable to slightly durable, with poor resistance to decay and insect attack
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Grain Pattern
Straight to medium-straight with a fine, even texture
Color & Appearance
Light cream to yellowish-brown heartwood, often with streaks of green, purple, or gray; pale yellowish-white sapwood. Tends to darken to a deeper brown or greenish-brown upon exposure to light and air over time.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to slightly durable, with poor resistance to decay and insect attack
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderately low, generally around $2.00 to $4.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber (freshly processed commercial board based on store inventory label)
- Sustainability Status
- Species of least concern, abundantly available, highly sustainable, not listed on CITES or IUCN red lists
Common Uses
Interior furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, molding, plywood, pallets, and general construction
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; cuts, planes, turns, glues, and takes paint or stain very well, though soft fibers can occasionally cause slight fuzzing during sanding
Finish Recommendations
Takes paint exceptionally well due to uniform texture; can also be stained to mimic other woods like cherry or walnut, or finished with clear coats like polyurethane or lacquer
Notable Features
Often contains distinct greenish or purplish mineral streaks, highly stable when properly dried, lightweight, and versatile
