Rubberwood
Hevea brasiliensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the Amazon basin in South America, but primarily cultivated in plantations throughout Southeast Asia (such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia).
- Hardness
- 955 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay, marine borers, and insect attack if untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a coarse and even texture. Plain-sawn or flat-sawn face grain showing growth ring transitions and minor knot details.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light yellowish-brown with a medium luster. May darken slightly to a richer amber or golden tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
955 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay, marine borers, and insect attack if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderately low cost, typically ranging from $2.00 to $4.00 per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 5 to 20 years based on typical household furniture aging, wear patterns, and surface finish degradation.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable. Harvested from mature plantation trees that have concluded their latex-producing lifecycle, making it an eco-friendly option.
Common Uses
Indoor furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, solid wood flooring, toys, and miscellaneous turned items.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon basin in South America, but primarily cultivated in plantations throughout Southeast Asia (such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia).
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Glues, turns, and finishes well, though pre-boring is recommended for nailing and screwing.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, paints, and clear finishes (polyurethane, lacquer, or oil) very well. Minimal special preparation is needed beyond standard sanding.
Notable Features
Often treated with preservatives to improve durability due to high starch content, which makes untreated wood attractive to insects.