Yellow Poplar (Tulipwood / Tulip Poplar)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Moderately Durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay when in contact with the ground.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a uniform, medium-fine texture; flat-sawn face showing subtle growth ring transitions.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from light yellowish-brown to olive-green, frequently with purplish or dark streaks; sapwood is creamy white and distinct, showing moderate darkening upon light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Moderately Durable; susceptible to insect attack and decay when in contact with the ground.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 5.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled or manufactured, estimated less than 5 years old based on clean, unweathered surfaces.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), highly sustainable, fast-growing, widely available, not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Interior trim, cabinetry, furniture framing, plywood core, doors, and general utility millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Exceptional workability; cuts, planes, and glues easily, though sharp tools are needed to prevent fuzzy surfaces on softer earlywood.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paints, stains, and varnishes exceptionally well; requires pigment stains if uniform dark color is desired due to natural color variation.
Notable Features
Features characteristic olive-green heartwood mineral streaks and a soft, lightweight density with good dimensional stability.
