Yellow Poplar (also known as Tulip Poplar or Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay if left untreated outdoors.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium to fine uniform texture. Flat-sawn appearance visible on the face with a small tight knot.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white sapwood with heartwood ranging from yellowish-green to brown, sometimes with purple, dark green, or blue streaks (mineral streaks). Has a moderate natural luster and darkens to a brown or amber hue upon prolonged exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay if left untreated outdoors.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 2.50 to 4.00 USD per board foot for standard domestic lumber grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively fresh commercial lumber, estimated between 1 to 5 years old based on clean surfaces and minimal oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and not threatened on the IUCN Red List. Widely available, sustainable, and commonly harvested in North America.
Common Uses
Interior furniture, cabinetry, plywood, framing, interior trim, moldings, toys, and turning.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; cuts, planes, turns, glues, and finishes very easily. Can sometimes tear out during planing if dull blades are used due to its softer nature.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paints, stains, and clear finishes (lacquer, polyurethane, oil) very well. Due to its propensity to blotch with darker stains, a pre-stain wood conditioner is often recommended.
Notable Features
Lightweight, stable when properly dried, and known for taking paint exceptionally well. It is part of the Magnolia family, despite its common name.
