Most likely yellow-poplar (tulip poplar); sassafras or another pale diffuse-porous hardwood are alternatives. — Liriodendron tulipifera (tentative)

Most likely yellow-poplar (tulip poplar); sassafras or another pale diffuse-porous hardwood are alternatives.

Liriodendron tulipifera (tentative) · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern North America, especially the eastern United States and adjacent southeastern Canada.
Hardness
540 lbf — Soft
Durability
Non-durable outdoors; heartwood has limited decay and insect resistance, so it is generally suited to protected, dry use.

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Grain Pattern

Appears mostly straight and fine-textured, with subtle longitudinal streaking; no distinctive figure or cut pattern is evident.

Color & Appearance

Pale yellow-tan to olive-brown, apparently fairly uniform; lighting and surface finish may affect the observed hue. Fresh poplar can darken toward brown with age.

Hardness (Janka)

540 lbf — Soft

Durability & Decay Resistance

Non-durable outdoors; heartwood has limited decay and insect resistance, so it is generally suited to protected, dry use.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly US$2–5 per board foot for common kiln-dried stock; grade, dimensions, and region affect price.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Not reliably estimable from this photo; the clean, evenly colored surface shows no clear patina or wear cues.

Common Uses

Interior furniture, cabinetry, paint-grade millwork, mouldings, carving, and plywood cores.

Geographic Origin

Eastern North America, especially the eastern United States and adjacent southeastern Canada.

Workability

Generally easy to machine, sand, glue, and fasten; its softness can lead to dents, fuzzy surfaces, or tearout if tools are dull.

Finish Recommendations

Sand progressively with sharp abrasives; use a sanding sealer or conditioner before stain to reduce blotching, or apply paint, lacquer, or clear polyurethane.

Notable Features

Lightweight, fine-textured, and often used as a paint-grade substitute; the image shows no clear pores or end grain for confirmation.

Learn more about Most likely yellow-poplar (tulip poplar); sassafras or another pale diffuse-porous hardwood are alternatives. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 8, 2026