Aspen

Poplar typically has a straight, uniform grain, with a medium texture. Heartwood is light cream to yellowish brown, with occasional streaks of gray or green. Sapwood is pale yellow to white, not always clearly demarcated from the heartwood. Moderate to non-rot resistance, can be subject to insect attack. Very easy to work in almost all regards, one of Poplar’s only downsides is its softness.

Generally straight grain, some have curly grain patterns, Heartwood is light pinkish brown when cut, then darkens with time and exposure to light. Sapwood is pale yellowish color. Common for most to have some sapwood along the outer edges. Durable and resistant to rot, however not generally used in exterior applications. Machines well. Some issues when staining.

Grain is slightly interlocked, producing an irregularly striped ribbon figure on quartersawn surfaces. Medium to fine uniform texture. Heartwood is golden to reddish brown. Fairly well defined sapwood is a contrasting pale brown. Moderate rot and insect resistant.