Yellow Poplar (Tulipwood)
Liriodendron tulipifera · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Eastern North America
- Hardness
- 540 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium to fine, even texture. Flat-sawn surface showing mild cathedral grain.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood ranges from light yellowish-brown to olive green, purple, and dark grey streaks (characteristic of mineral streaks). Sapwood is creamy white. Darkens significantly upon exposure to light, shifting to a deeper brown or greenish-brown patina.
Hardness (Janka)
540 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 5.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled or recently worked lumber, estimated less than 1 year old based on surface dust and minimal oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN), widely abundant and sustainable in North America, readily available uncertified.
Common Uses
Interior furniture framing, painted cabinetry, moldings, trim, plywood, toys, and general millwork.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. Cuts, glues, and takes paint exceptionally well. Can sometimes cause slight fuzzing during sanding due to relative softness.
Finish Recommendations
Takes paints, stains, and clear finishes very well. Due to its tendency to take blotchy stain, a pre-stain wood conditioner is often recommended if a uniform dark stain is desired.
Notable Features
Features distinct olive-green to purplish heartwood coloration known as mineral streaks, stable dimensional properties, and light weight.