Poplar Mills and paints well. Mineral streaks and green shade make it unsuitable for staining. Less costly - best used for millwork and trim that is nailed in place. Generally results in a lesser quality shutter. Cedar Mills and finishes nicely.
Color varies greatly for staining.
Very soft so tends to dent and scratch easily. Staples do not hold well. Alder Very satisfactory. Our second choice for shutters. A small tree so mostly short lengths are available, thus unable to fabricate tall shutters without finger joints.