Characteristics

Poplar is considered a hardwood species because it is a deciduous species, that is, one that looses its leaves in the autumn.  However, the wood itself is relatively soft and is easily worked through the planer or moulder.  It is lighter than oak and yet it is relatively strong.  It is a favorite species of woodworkers because of its soft texture, weight, and straight grain.  The outer part of the tree develops a white sapwood which once milled into boards turns to a light yellow hue when exposed to the air.  As the center is approached, the wood develops a firm yellow color and then a variety of colors from green to purple to black may appear.  Customers will often provide specific color requirements for their particular use and most often preferring the white color.

Availability

Abundant in the eastern, mid-western, and southern United States.  Yellow Poplar or Tulip Poplar, as it is called in some regions, and Cucumber are treated as one species in lumber sorts.

Uses

The upper grades of lumber are used in case goods furniture.  More commonly the lumber is used in drawers or as a base for veneer sheets.  Upper grades are used for moulding, picture frames, and trim work.  The 2A and 3A grades are used widely as frame stock and other furniture parts.  Cants for pallet lumber and dunnage are cut from the center.  It is not used for railroad crossties because it is too soft.