Yellow Poplar (Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, uniform grain with a medium to fine texture. This sample appears flat-sawn with some minor fuzziness on the surface suggestive of diffuse-porous structure.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically light cream to yellowish brown, with characteristic streaks of gray or green. Sapwood is pale yellow to white. It tends to darken or brown significantly with exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to slightly durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if used outdoors without treatment.
Common Uses
Light construction, furniture framing, cabinetry (especially painted), interior trim, plywood, crates, and musical instrument components.
Geographic Origin
Eastern United States
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 - $4.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/modern (less than 10 years); the wood shows fresh saw marks, light oxidation, and minimal patina or wear.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and highly sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It planes, turns, glues, and finishes well, though it can sometimes leave a fuzzy surface if tools are not sharp.
Notable Features
Often referred to as the 'utility player' of hardwoods; known for being exceptionally stable and holding paint better than almost any other wood species.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paint and enamel exceptionally well. If staining, a sealer or wood conditioner is recommended to prevent blotchiness due to varying density.
Identification Confidence
High; the pale yellowish-green hue combined with the tight, diffuse-porous grain and the 'fuzzy' texture of the rough-cut surface are classic indicators of Liriodendron tulipifera.