
Most likely eastern cottonwood or poplar; alternatives include willow or soft maple.
Populus deltoides (probable); Populus spp. or Salix spp. possible · Hardwood (angiosperm/deciduous)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect- Type
- Hardwood (angiosperm/deciduous)
- Origin
- Eastern and central North America, especially floodplains and moist lowlands.
- Hardness
- Janka approximately 430 lbf—Very Soft.
- Durability
- Non-durable outdoors; limited resistance to rot, insects, and weathering.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight, coarse, and stringy with prominent longitudinal tension-failure or bark-inclusion damage; no clear decorative figure. The surface appears freshly split rather than cleanly sawn.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light tan heartwood and sapwood with subdued luster; likely to darken slightly yellow-brown with oxidation.
Hardness (Janka)
Janka approximately 430 lbf—Very Soft.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable outdoors; limited resistance to rot, insects, and weathering.
Value & Age
About $1–3 per board foot for ordinary local stock; figured or clear specialty pieces may differ substantially.
AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Cannot be estimated reliably; it appears freshly exposed and minimally weathered, regardless of tree age.
Common Uses
Pulp, crates, pallets, utility lumber, low-cost furniture, carving, matches, and occasional veneer.
Geographic Origin
Eastern and central North America, especially floodplains and moist lowlands.
Workability
Very easy to cut, carve, nail, and sand, but prone to fuzzy surfaces, crushing, and tearout along stringy grain. Glue generally works well.
Finish Recommendations
Sand progressively and seal with diluted shellac or sanding sealer before lacquer, polyurethane, or paint; preconditioning helps reduce uneven absorption.
Notable Features
Lightweight, low-density, and shock-absorbing; the fibrous fracture pattern is more diagnostic here than color.