What is it?
A fast-growing, light, straight-grained American hardwood - neither a poplar nor yellow in the parts that matter - used where a stable wood will be painted or hidden.
Why does it matter?
Yellow poplar is the utility hardwood: cheap, abundant, available in wide clear boards, and stable enough for mouldings and cores. It is where hardwood competes with softwood and MDF rather than with oak.
Where it grows
The eastern United States, particularly the Appalachians.What it is used for
Painted mouldings and joinery, furniture frames and drawer sides, plywood cores, pallets, veneer.What to watch
Sold as tulipwood in Europe. The greenish heartwood darkens on exposure, which is why it is specified for paint rather than clear finish.What it is used for
All end markets →| End market | What it does there | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Furniture & Joinery | Painted mouldings, frames and panel cores | Important |