High, confirmed by the characteristic green and purple mineral streaking combined with the soft, uniform texture typical of Poplar confidence

Yellow Poplar

Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood

Type: Hardwood
Origin: Eastern North America
Hardness: 540 lbf (Soft)
Durability: Moderate to Non-durable

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Grain Pattern

Straight grain with a uniform, medium-fine texture

Color & Appearance

Light cream to yellowish-brown heartwood with characteristic streaks of green, purple, blue, and black (mineral streaks), and pale yellowish-white sapwood

Hardness (Janka)

540 lbf (Soft)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderate to Non-durable

Value & Sustainability

Estimated Market Value: 3.00 to 5.00 USD per board foot
Wood Age Estimate: Recently milled, likely less than 2 years old
Sustainability Status: Least concern, abundant and widely available in North America

Common Uses

Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, plywood, framing, and specialty woodworking

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America

Workability

Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools, cuts and glues well, but requires sharp tools to prevent fuzzy surfaces

Finish Recommendations

Takes paints, stains, and clear finishes exceptionally well due to its even texture

Notable Features

Distinctive multicolored mineral streaks running through the heartwood (often referred to as 'rainbow poplar')

Learn more about Yellow Poplar in the Wood Encyclopedia

Identified August 24, 2026