Lauan (Philippine Mahogany)
Shorea spp. • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked, medium to coarse texture with large pores and a slightly fibrous appearance; flat-sawn orientation visible.
Color Description
Reddish-brown to tan heartwood with lighter yellowish sapwood. Exhibits low to moderate luster and tends to darken and gray with outdoor exposure.
Hardness Rating
400-800 lbf (Very Soft to Soft) depending on exact Shorea species.
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; low resistance to rot and insect attack, often used for interior purposes.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior trim, plywood veneers, door skins, and lightweight construction.
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia, primarily Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot for solid lumber; widely sold as inexpensive thin plywood sheets.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (likely within the last 5-10 years) based on surface texture, lack of significant oxidation, and typical factory-cut characteristics.
Sustainability Status
Many species of Shorea are listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to over-harvesting; FSC certification is available but less common.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, but interlocked grain can cause fuzzy surfaces or tearout during planing; glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Lacks a distinctive scent; has a stringy, open-pore texture that often requires a grain filler for smooth finishing; may cause skin irritation in some individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to stains, lacquer, and polyurethane. Grain filler highly recommended if a high-gloss or smooth furniture finish is desired.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; typical open-pored appearance, reddish-tan hue, and fibrous texture are hallmarks of commercial Lauan plywood commonly used in utility applications.