Rubberwood
Hevea brasiliensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the Amazon basin in South America, but extensively cultivated in plantations throughout Southeast Asia (primarily Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia).
- Hardness
- 955 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay, powderpost beetles, and termite attacks if untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a coarse, uniform texture. The image shows an edge-glued panel (finger-jointed or stave-built) consisting of flat-sawn pieces displaying subtle cathedral grain patterns and minor knots.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light yellowish-brown, sometimes with a pinkish hue. There is little distinction between heartwood and sapwood. It tends to darken slightly to a light golden brown with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
955 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay, powderpost beetles, and termite attacks if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $5.00 per board foot for manufactured panels.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern manufactured panel (new to a few years old), showing no significant patina or aging wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable. Sourced from plantation trees harvested primarily for latex production after their economic latex-yielding lifespan ends (typically around 25-30 years). Not CITES listed and not threatened.
Common Uses
Furniture, table tops, cabinetry, interior flooring, cutting boards, and toys.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon basin in South America, but extensively cultivated in plantations throughout Southeast Asia (primarily Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia).
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well. Can occasionally be prone to warping if not properly dried, but stability is greatly improved in edge-glued panel form.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, varnishes, and lacquers very well. Due to its uniform absorption, pre-stain conditioners are usually not necessary unless trying to achieve a very dark, even tone.
Notable Features
Often marketed as an eco-friendly 'rubberwood' or 'parawood'. It contains natural latex when fresh, but kiln-dried lumber is inert and safe. It has good dimensional stability once manufactured into panels.