Yellow Poplar Logs for Sale
Buy and sell Tulip Poplar logs throughout the Appalachian region. The workhorse hardwood for millwork, trim, pallets, and plywood core.
Why Yellow Poplar Is a Mill Favorite
Yellow Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), also called Tulip Poplar or Tulip Tree, is the tallest hardwood in eastern North America. Its fast growth, straight grain, and easy workability make it a staple at sawmills throughout the region.
Poplar machines beautifully, takes paint and stain well, and is significantly lighter than oak or maple. Mills love it because it dries quickly with minimal warping, and the consistent quality keeps buyers coming back.
While not as valuable per board foot as oak or walnut, Poplar's volume and versatility make it one of the most commercially important species in the Appalachian hardwood industry.
Millwork & Trim
Moldings, baseboards, crown
Pallets & Crates
Lightweight, strong pallet stock
Plywood Core
Interior plywood and veneer
Painted Furniture
Furniture meant to be painted
Yellow Poplar Log Types
- Veneer Logs: Large, clear logs used for plywood face veneer and architectural panels. Higher value than sawlogs.
- Sawlogs: Standard grade for lumber production. The bulk of Poplar harvest goes here.
- Pallet Logs: Lower grade logs perfect for pallet and crate production. High volume market.
- Pulpwood: Smaller or lower quality material for paper production.
Yellow Poplar Grading & Pricing
Poplar pricing is generally lower than oak but compensated by volume. Here's a general guide:
| Grade | Min. Diameter | Typical Use | Price Range* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veneer | 18"+ | Plywood, panels | $400-800/MBF |
| Prime | 14"+ | Millwork, trim | $250-400/MBF |
| #1 | 12"+ | General lumber | $180-300/MBF |
| #2/Pallet | 10"+ | Pallets, crates | $100-200/MBF |
Frequently Asked Questions About Poplar Logs
What are Poplar logs worth?
Yellow Poplar (Tulip Poplar) log prices range from $200–$500 per MBF for prime sawlogs, $150–$300 for #1 common, and $80–$150 for pallet grade (all Doyle scale). Veneer-grade Poplar with wide, clear faces can bring $400–$800+ per MBF. Poplar is valued for its consistent availability and workability.
What is Yellow Poplar used for?
Yellow Poplar is one of the most versatile hardwoods in the Appalachian region. It’s used for interior trim and molding, painted furniture, cabinet frames, plywood core stock, pallets and crates, and pulpwood. Its light weight, straight grain, and ease of machining make it popular with mills. It takes paint and stain well, making it a cost-effective alternative to more expensive hardwoods.
Is Poplar a hardwood or softwood?
Despite its soft texture, Yellow Poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) is classified as a hardwood because it is a deciduous broadleaf tree. It is one of the softest and lightest commercial hardwoods, which actually makes it easier to work with. The term ‘hardwood’ refers to the tree’s botanical classification (angiosperm), not the actual hardness of the wood.
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