Yellow Poplar (Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium to fine uniform texture. Flat-sawn and plain-sliced appearance showing subtle cathedral patterns.
Color & Appearance
Light cream to yellowish-brown heartwood, sometimes with streaks of green, purple, or gray. Sapwood is a pale white to yellowish-white. Luster is medium. Darkens to a deeper golden-brown or amber tone upon prolonged exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.50 to $4.00 per board foot (standard domestic lumber pricing)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, estimated less than 1-2 years old based on fresh surface condition and lack of significant oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Abundant, highly sustainable, not listed on CITES appendices, and evaluated as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Common Uses
Interior trim, cabinetry, furniture framing, plywood, molding, toys, and general millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability. Cuts, planes, routs, and sands very easily. Can be prone to fuzzy surfaces when sanding if abrasives are worn. Accepts paints, stains, and glues well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paint exceptionally well due to uniform texture. Can also be stained to mimic other woods like cherry or walnut, though clear finishes or lacquers work well to preserve its natural pale appearance.
Notable Features
Often displays unique mineral staining (olive green or purple hues), relatively lightweight, dimensionally stable once dried, and possesses no characteristic odor.