Yellow Poplar (Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine-textured grain; predominantly flat-sawn displaying subtle cathedral patterns; minimal figure present in this utility grade sample.
Color Description
Creamy white to pale yellowish sapwood with a characteristic greyish-green or olive-colored heartwood streak visible; tends to darken to a brown/yellow hue upon UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; low resistance to decay and highly susceptible to insect attack if left untreated in exterior conditions.
Common Uses
Light construction, furniture framing, cabinetry interiors, paint-grade trim/molding, pallets, crates, and plywood cores.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 - $4.50 per board foot (Retail)
Wood Age Estimate
Recently milled secondary growth; roughly 0-2 years since harvest based on lack of heavy oxidation and clean rough-sawn surfaces.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); highly sustainable and widely available; not listed on CITES appendices.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools; exceptionally easy to plane, sand, and glue, though can be fuzzy if tools are not sharp.
Notable Features
Often multi-colored with green/purple streaks; very faint cucumber-like scent when freshly cut; one of the tallest and straightest growing hardwoods in North America.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for paint or solid stains due to greenish heartwood; takes primer and paint exceptionally well; clear coats are possible but colors may appear muddy over time.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct greenish-yellow tint combined with the diffuse-porous texture and light weight is diagnostic for Liriodendron tulipifera.