Yellow Poplar (also known as Tulip Poplar or American Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable (moderate to low resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attack if left untreated outdoors)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to medium-straight grain with a relatively fine, uniform texture. Flat-sawn and plain-sawn characteristics with minor natural irregularities.
Color & Appearance
Light yellowish-brown to olive-green heartwood with creamy white sapwood. The exposed surfaces display characteristic greenish-brown tones that have weathered slightly under UV exposure, showing a muted luster.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable (moderate to low resistance to decay and susceptible to insect attack if left untreated outdoors)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.00 to $4.00 per board foot (standard domestic utility hardwood)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20-50 years old based on patina, fastener hole wear, and oxidation levels indicative of salvaged or reclaimed structural boards.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (abundant, widely harvested, and highly sustainable with excellent forest regeneration rates)
Common Uses
Interior trim, cabinetry, furniture framing, plywood, molding, and general millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; cuts, planes, glues, and takes paint or stain easily, though its softness requires sharp tools to prevent minor fuzzing during sanding.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paints, stains, and clear finishes exceptionally well. Due to its soft nature, a sanding sealer is often recommended before applying polyurethane or lacquer.
Notable Features
Distinctive greenish cast in the heartwood, low weight, high dimensional stability once dry, and lack of strong natural odor.
