Poplar (Yellow Poplar / Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable, with poor resistance to rot and insect attack when exposed to outdoor environments.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a fine, even texture. Flat-sawn surface showing subtle cathedral patterns and slight mineral streaking.
Color & Appearance
Light cream to yellowish-brown heartwood with occasional greenish or purplish mineral streaks (common in yellow poplar); paler sapwood. Luster is medium. Darkens to a warmer amber or brownish tone over time upon exposure to UV light.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, with poor resistance to rot and insect attack when exposed to outdoor environments.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 2.50 to 5.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, approximately 1-5 years old based on clean, unoxidized fresh surfaces and minor shop wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), not listed on CITES appendices, widely available and sustainable.
Common Uses
Interior trim, painted cabinetry, painted furniture, plywood core stock, framing, and light-duty turnings.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes and saws cleanly, though dull blades can cause fuzzy grain due to the wood's softness. Takes paint and glues exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts paint exceptionally well, which is its most common use. For clear finishes, sanding sealer followed by lacquer, varnish, or polyurethane works well, though staining can sometimes appear blotchy due to varying absorbency.
Notable Features
Features characteristic greenish-brown mineral streaks which are common in tulipwood. Lightweight, stable when properly dried, and often used as a substrate for painting due to its uniform texture.
