Poplar (Tulipwood / Yellow Poplar)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to rot, fungal staining, and insect attack if exposed to moisture.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Generally straight grain with a fine, uniform texture. Shows mild cathedral patterning and faint annual ring lines on this flat-sawn rough board surface.
Color & Appearance
Pale creamy white to light grayish-tan sapwood with subtle greenish-gray undertones and discolored water staining along the upper edge. Darkens slightly to golden-brown upon light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to rot, fungal staining, and insect attack if exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.50 - $4.50 per board foot for rough-sawn lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled to recently harvested (less than 1 year old); shows recent mill circular saw marks, water staining, and minimal oxidative darkening.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN). Highly sustainable, abundant, widely available with FSC certification, and not CITES restricted.
Common Uses
Cabinet interiors, painted furniture, picture frames, millwork, interior trim, plywood cores, turning blanks, and general light construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Extremely easy to work with both hand and power tools. Glues, sands, and fastens well, though its soft nature can lead to fuzzy surfaces if tools are dull.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for painting or opaque finishes due to non-descript color. If staining, apply a sanding sealer or gel stain to avoid blotchiness.
Notable Features
Lightweight hardwood with soft, uniform density; lacks a distinct odor; holds paint exceptionally well compared to most domestic hardwoods.
Notes
Rough sawn
