Poplar (Yellow Poplar / Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and rot when in contact with the ground.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium to fine texture, featuring a prominent flat-sawn cathedral arch pattern wrapping around a large tight knot (knotty figure).
Color & Appearance
Pale yellowish-white to light cream sapwood with gray-weathered face tones and streaks of olive-green and brown near the knot. Luster is medium. Tends to darken to a deeper brown or green-brown upon prolonged UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to insect attack and rot when in contact with the ground.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 5.00 USD per board foot (standard utility grade)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 10 to 30 years old, showing moderate surface oxidation and weathering.
- Sustainability Status
- Least concern, highly sustainable, abundantly available, not listed on CITES appendices.
Common Uses
Interior trim, painted cabinetry, furniture framing, mouldings, plywood core, and utility items.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Planes, bores, and turns well, though sharp blades are needed to prevent fuzzy surfaces due to its softer density. Glues and finishes exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paints, stains, and clear finishes exceptionally well. Because of its tendency to absorb stains unevenly, a wood conditioner or toner is often recommended for uniform staining.
Notable Features
Lightweight, stable when properly dried, high strength-to-weight ratio for a utility hardwood, and contains characteristic mineral or oxidation streaks.
