Poplar (Yellow Poplar / Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium to fine uniform texture; exhibits a plain flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible on the face grain.
Color & Appearance
Light creamy yellowish-white sapwood with heartwood ranging from yellowish-brown to olive green, sometimes with streaks of purple, red, or black. Color tends to darken to a deeper brown or greenish-brown upon prolonged exposure to light and air.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if left untreated or exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 5.00 USD per board foot for standard utility grade lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent lumber, estimated at 1 to 5 years old based on clean, unweathered surface characteristics and lack of deep patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern conservation status; widely abundant, fast-growing, sustainably harvested, and readily available FSC-certified.
Common Uses
Interior trim, painted cabinetry, furniture framing, mouldings, plywood, pallets, and general utility construction.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; cuts, planes, and sands very easily with hand and machine tools, though sharp blades are needed to prevent slight fuzzy tear-out on softer springwood areas.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paint exceptionally well due to uniform texture; can also be stained to mimic other woods (though somewhat blotchy), sealed with shellac, lacquer, or polyurethane.
Notable Features
Lightweight, stable, excellent dimensional stability once dried, excellent for painting, moderate natural bending strength.
