Wood Type
Hardwood
The Tree
With the exception of the white poplar and aspen, the trees reach a height of 30m; the two former species seldom exceeding 18m. The diameter of all types is around 1m.
The Timber
Poplar timber can be grouped with willow, lime and horse chestnut, since they are all soft, fine-textured woods, generally without lustre and without any very characteristic colour. Poplar wood is whitish or light green in colour, with no clear distinction between sapwood and heartwood. It is usually straight grained, without odour, uniform in appearance and light in weight, the various species weighing about 450 kg/m³ when dried, although the grey poplar is usually a little heavier at 480 kg/m³.
Drying
Dries rapidly and fairly well.
Working Qualities
Medium – Poplar is reputed to have the best working properties, A good finish is obtainable with all species however, if thin, sharp-edged tools are employed. They can be glued satisfactorily, and take paint, polish and varnish quite well, but while they can be stained the wood accepts the stain with patchy results.
Strength
For their weight, poplar timbers are relatively strong and tough, and in the dried state, and depending on type.
Treatability
Difficult, easy (sapwood)
Moisture Movement
Large
Density
450kg/m3
Texture
Fine to medium
Use(s)
Joinery – Interior, Flooring and Furniture
Colour(s)
White/Cream, light green
Sample
