American Basswood (or Poplar/Tulipwood)
Tilia americana · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 410 lbf (Very Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a fine, even texture and subtle growth rings typical of turned or carved utilitarian woodenware.
Color & Appearance
Pale creamy white to light yellowish-brown with very little discernible difference between sapwood and heartwood. Displays a rich, aged patina from use and handling.
Hardness (Janka)
410 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to decay and insect attack when exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for lumber, though antique items like this carved bowl command a significantly higher decorative value.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 50 to 100+ years old based on the heavy patina, surface wear patterns, and characteristics of antique dough bowls.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern species, widely abundant and sustainably harvested in North America with no CITES restrictions.
Common Uses
Carving, turned wooden bowls and dough bowls, furniture secondary woods, core stock, boxes, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptionally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Cuts cleanly, glues and finishes well, though its softness requires care to avoid denting.
Finish Recommendations
Food-safe mineral oil, beeswax, or traditional drying oils (like walnut or linseed oil) since this is a carved utility bowl.
Notable Features
Lightweight, stable when dry, excellent for carving and traditional bowl hewing due to its lack of pronounced grain resistance.
