Yellow Poplar (Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, flat-sawn cathedral pattern with a uniform, medium-to-fine texture and closed pores.
Color Description
Light cream to yellowish sapwood with a characteristic olive-green to dark brown mineral stain in the heartwood. Heartwood often turns darker brown/red upon exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable, slightly resistant to decay; vulnerable to insect attack if left untreated or in damp conditions.
Common Uses
Light construction, furniture framing, interior trim, cabinetry (paint-grade), furniture cores, veneer, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 to $4.50 per board foot depending on thickness and width.
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled or recently surfaced lumber; shows minimal oxidation and retains bright contrast between sap and heartwood colors.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available and sustainable.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; however, it is known for its softness and can easily fuzz or dent if tools are not sharp.
Notable Features
Often referred to as the 'whitewood' of hardwoods; very lightweight and easy to finish; contains a signature green mineral streak that is diagnostic for the species.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for paint or opaque finishes due to color variation; takes clear coats well, but green hues may eventually turn brown.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct olive-green heartwood contrast against the pale sapwood and the fine-textured grain is a definitive visual indicator of Liriodendron tulipifera.