Poplar (Yellow Poplar)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable, non-resistant to decay and susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a uniform, medium texture and occasional subtle wavy figures.
Color & Appearance
Creamy white sapwood with heartwood displaying shades of pale yellowish-green, tan, and occasional grayish or purplish streaks. Luster is medium.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable, non-resistant to decay and susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.50 to $4.00 per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled lumber, likely less than 2 years old based on lack of heavy oxidation and surface patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably managed.
Common Uses
Interior furniture, cabinetry, painted millwork, moldings, picture frames, and plywood cores.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Cuts, glues, and takes paint exceptionally well, though it can fuzz slightly during routing or sanding if tools are not sharp.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paints, stains, and varnishes very well. Because of its greenish undertones, tinted primers or pigmented stains are often used if a uniform color is desired.
Notable Features
Lightweight, dimensionally stable, low shock resistance, and known for wild color variations that tend to brown with UV exposure.
