Poplar

Botanical Name

Liriodendron tulipifera

Other Common Names

Tulip Poplar, Yellow Poplar

Region

Eastern United States

The Tree

Poplar trees may reach a heights of 130-160 feet, with a diameter of 6-8 feet; making it the tallest hardwood tree in the eastern US.The flowers of this tree look similar to tulips.

Appearance

Heartwood is light cream to yellowish brown, with occasional streaks of gray/green. Sapwood is white and sometimes has stripes. Colors tend to darken with light exposure.The wood can also be seen in mineral stained colors ranging from dark purple, red, green, black, blue and yellow. This is sometimes referred to as Rainbow Poplar.

Properties

Poplar typically has a straight, uniform grain, with a medium texture, and low natural luster.

Working Properties

Yellow Poplar has the reputation of being one of the easiest of all hardwoods to work with in most regards. Poplar has a low density and because of this the wood is very soft and may leave fuzzy surfaces and edges. For a smooth surface a finer grit sanding is necessary.

Uses

Seldom used for its appearance(except with Rainbow Poplar), Poplar is a utility wood. It is used for pallets, crates, upholstered, furniture frames, pulpwood, and plywood.

Availability

Among the most economical and inexpensive of all domestic hardwoods. The wood should be affordable priced in the Eastern United States.