Colour
Durability
Density in kg/m3
The TreeA large tree attaining a height of 37m or more, and a diameter of 2m or more.
The TimberThe sapwood is white, and in second-growth trees, very wide; the heartwood is variable in colour, ranging from olive green to yellow or brown, and may be streaked with steel-blue. The annual growth terminates in a white band of parenchyma giving a subdued figure to longitudinal surfaces. The wood is' straight-grained. fine-textured, fairly soft and light in weight about 510 kg/m3 when dried.
DryingDries easily and well, with little degrade.
StrengthSimilar to idigbo (Terminalia ivorensis) in general strength properties.
Working QualitiesGood - Easy to work, and finishes to a fine, smooth surface Takes nails without tending to split, glues well, can be stained polished or painted, and holds hard enamel finishes excellently.
Latin NameLiriodendron tulipifera
Also known asAmerican yellow poplar (UK), American whitewood, tulip tree (UK and USA), canary wood (UK), canary whitewood (UK)
Wood TypeHardwood
TreatabilityModerate
MoistureMedium
TextureFine
OriginCanada, USA
Related Case Studies
Sourcing timber
The TDUK Wood Species Database provides practical information on wood species currently or recently available in the UK market.
Before importing any species listed, you must carry out due diligence to ensure compliance with environmental, social and legal standards, including CITES – the international agreement protecting endangered species.
When buying from existing stock, always source through a TDUK member, who will have completed the required due diligence, including CITES checks.
If a species is no longer commercially available, TDUK members can advise on legal, sustainable alternatives that match desired characteristics such as colour, appearance or density.
