Yellow Poplar (also known as Tulip Poplar or Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America.
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable; rated as non-resistant to decay and susceptible to insect attack if left untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to medium-straight grain with a relatively fine, uniform texture.
Color & Appearance
Features distinct color variations typically associated with tulipwood or mineral-stained poplar. The sapwood is creamy white, while the heartwood displays ranges from pale yellowish-brown to olive green, purple, blue, and grayish streaks caused by mineral staining.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable; rated as non-resistant to decay and susceptible to insect attack if left untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently harvested or freshly cut sample, estimated under 5 years old based on surface texture and minimal UV oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or the IUCN Red List. Abundantly available and harvested sustainably in North America.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, plywood, framing, turnings, and general utility woodworking.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America.
Workability
Exceptional workability; planes, cuts, and glues very easily. Tends to have fuzzy surfaces when sanded if sandpaper is dull, but takes paint exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paints, stains, and clear finishes exceptionally well. Due to its soft nature, a sanding sealer followed by lacquer, polyurethane, or a painted finish works best.
Notable Features
Soft relative to other hardwoods, lightweight, stable when dry, and frequently displays striking mineral streaks (purple and green hues).
