Yellow Poplar (Tulipwood / Tulip Poplar)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America.
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable. Moderate to low resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to medium-straight grain with a relatively fine, uniform texture.
Color & Appearance
The heartwood exhibits a wide range of colors from pale yellowish-green to dark brown, purple, blue, black, and gray streaks (often referred to as mineral streaks or rainbow poplar). The sapwood is a creamy white, which can darken over time to a light brown when exposed to light.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable. Moderate to low resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and presence of mineral streaking/color.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled or kiln-dried lumber (estimated less than 1 to 3 years old based on clean appearance and lack of heavy oxidation).
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely available, not CITES listed, frequently FSC certified.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, plywood, framing, turnings, and general utility construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America.
Workability
Exceptional workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes, turns, glues, and finishes very well, though sharp tools are required to prevent fuzzy surfaces due to its relatively soft nature.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and paints exceptionally well. Due to its tendency to blotch with dark stains, a pre-color conditioner or gel stain is recommended if a uniform dark finish is desired; clear varnishes, lacquers, and oils also work well.
Notable Features
Known for the striking mineral streaks and multicolored heartwood (Rainbow Poplar), stable dimensional properties, and low weight relative to its strength.
