Yellow Poplar (Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, uniform grain with a medium to fine texture. Typically features a flat-sawn cathedral pattern on wider boards, though the sample shows a consistent vertical orientation.
Color Description
Sapwood is creamy white to off-white; heartwood is characteristically light olive green to yellowish-brown. Exposure to light causes the green tones to darken to brown or even purple over time.
Hardness Rating
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to insect attack and rot if exposed to moisture/ground contact.
Common Uses
Cabinetry, interior trim, furniture frames, pallets, crates, plywood, and musical instrument components. Often used for paint-grade projects.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America (Eastern United States and Southern Ontario)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 to $4.50 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively new material, likely kiln-dried stock within the last 1-5 years. Shows minimal oxidation or surface wear.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; considered highly sustainable and widely available.
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes and sands easily, though it is somewhat prone to fuzzing if tools are not sharp due to its low density.
Notable Features
Faint, pleasant scent when being worked. Known for its distinct green heartwood and excellent paint-taking qualities.
Finish Recommendations
Primarily recommended for painting. If staining, a sealer or wood conditioner is necessary to prevent blotchiness. Lacquer or water-based polyurethane works well for clear finishes.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic light greenish-yellow heartwood streak combined with the fuzzy surface texture from a rough-sawn cut is diagnostic for Poplar.