Cottonwood (Eastern Cottonwood)
Populus deltoides · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern and Central North America
- Hardness
- 430 lbf (Very Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay, rot, and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a somewhat coarse, uniform texture. Shows growth rings clearly on the cross-section end grain.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is light yellowish-brown to gray, while the sapwood is whitish and can be very wide. Luster is low to medium, and the wood tends to gray significantly when exposed to weather and UV light.
Hardness (Janka)
430 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, with poor resistance to decay, rot, and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Low cost, typically around $1.50 to $3.00 per board foot for domestic lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The log appears to be freshly felled or recently cut within the past few weeks to months, based on the green state and radial checking.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, highly abundant, fast-growing native tree not listed on CITES or IUCN red lists.
Common Uses
Pulpwood, veneer, plywood, crating, pallets, boxes, and occasionally interior furniture components or rough construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and Central North America
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can sometimes produce fuzzy surfaces during sanding due to soft fibers. Takes glue and fasteners well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and paints well, though sealers or sanding sealers are often needed to prevent a blotchy appearance on the soft, absorbent surface.
Notable Features
Fast growth rate, lightweight when dry, woolly seed fibers produced by female trees in spring, low bending strength.