Yellow Poplar (Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight-grained with a fine, even texture. The image shows a subtle cathedral pattern from flat-sawing, with visible greenish-grey streaks characteristic of the heartwood.
Color Description
Sapwood is creamy white to light yellow; heartwood is typically light olive green to yellowish brown. It is known to darken to a brown/reddish-brown upon UV exposure. Wide grey/green mineral staining is visible in this sample.
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 framing, furniture frames, interior trim, plywood, pallets, crates, and paper pulp. Often used as a paint-grade wood.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 - $4.50 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears relatively fresh or recently milled, likely less than 5 years old, showing minimal oxidation but significant insect exit holes suggesting it was sitting as a log for some time.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and considered highly sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It takes glue, nails, and screws well. It is prone to fuzzing when sanded with fine grits and can be difficult to stain evenly without a sealer.
Notable Features
Faint, pleasant scent when being worked. Notable for the greenish tint in the heartwood. Low density makes it lightweight. Visible evidence of 'Powderpost Beetle' or similar borer holes on the left edge.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for paint or solid color stains due to uneven absorption ('blotching'). If transparent finishing is desired, use a wood conditioner or shellac sealer before applying topcoat.
Identification Confidence
High; the olive-green color variation, fine texture, and characteristic 'cathedral' bloom are definitive for Liriodendron tulipifera.