Poplar (Yellow Poplar)
Liriodendron tulipifera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight, uniform grain with a medium to fine texture. Features a classic cathedral pattern and subtle rays when flat-sawn.
Color Description
Light cream to yellowish-brown heartwood with characteristic streaks of olive green or greyish-purple. Sapwood is pale yellow to white. Darkens to a more uniform brown over time with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
540 lbf (Soft Hardwood)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable. Very susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Interior trim, cabinetry (painted), furniture frames, pallets, crates, plywood cores, Venetian blinds, and paper pulp.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (United States and Southern Canada)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 to $4.50 per board foot depending on region and grade.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/Freshly milled; sample shows no significant oxidation, wear, or patina, suggesting it was produced within the last 1-2 years.
Sustainability Status
Least concern; very sustainable. Widespread availability and not listed on CITES or the IUCN Red List of threatened species.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Planes, sands, and glues well. Very easy to nail and screw without splitting, though it is prone to fuzzing if tools are not sharp.
Notable Features
Faint scent when being worked; known for its ability to take paint and stains exceptionally well. Can have 'fuzz' on the surface after sanding that requires a sanding sealer.
Finish Recommendations
Primarily recommended for paint and opaque finishes. If staining, a pre-stain wood conditioner is essential to prevent blotchiness. Lacquer and polyurethane work well.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic creamy-white color with the distinct pale green streaks and the smooth, fine-pored texture are definitive markers of Liriodendron tulipifera.