| Name | Poplar (Populus spp.) |
| Type | Hardwood. |
| Other Names | Includes European black poplar, Canadian poplar, balsam poplar, cottonwood, and various varieties of aspen. |
| Sources | Grows throughout N. America, Europe, and Asia. |
| Appearance | Generally straight grained and “woolly” with a fine, even texture. Creamy-white to pale brown heartwood and sapwood. |
| Physical Props | Most species are typically soft and light with low ratings for strength, stiffness, shock resistance, decay resistance, and steam bending. Moderate movement in service. |
| Working Props | Works easily with hand or machine tools but sharp edges recommended. Glues, screws and nails well. Staining can be patchy but paints and varnish are easily applied. |
| Uses | Used for furniture framing, interior joinery, toys, turnery, matches, crates, boxes, pallets, packing, plywood core stock, veneer, and pulpwood. |
