Lauan (Philippine Mahogany)
Shorea spp. • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a coarse, open-pored texture; flat-sawn displaying subtle cathedral patterns
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from pale pink to reddish-brown; sapwood is lighter grey-yellow. Luster is low to medium and color tends to darken slightly with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
425 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; low resistance to decay and insect attack, especially when used in ground contact
Common Uses
Plywood, interior trim, lightweight furniture, drawer sides, boxes, and crates
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia, primarily the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $6.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled/secondary lumber; minimal oxidation or patina suggesting it is less than 2 years old
Sustainability Status
Many species are listed on the IUCN Red List as Critically Endangered due to habitat loss; FSC certification is available but not standard
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause fuzzy surfaces or tearout during planing; glues and finishes well
Notable Features
Features a distinct coarse texture and visible pores; known for being lightweight and having a somewhat bland, uniform appearance compared to true Mahogany
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to oil-based stains and polyurethane; a sanding sealer is recommended due to the high porosity of the wood
Identification Confidence
Medium; the pinkish hue, stringy end-grain texture, and open-pored face grain are characteristic of the Dipterocarpaceae family, specifically commercial Lauan.