Rubberwood
Hevea brasiliensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the Amazon rainforest in South America, extensively cultivated in Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia) for rubber production.
- Hardness
- 955 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable, susceptible to attack by fungi, beetles, and termites if untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to shallowly interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture, flat-sawn appearance showing subtle growth rings typical of plantation-grown tropical timber.
Color & Appearance
Light blonde to medium tan with a yellowish-brown hue, evenly stained to a medium warm brown finish with moderate luster.
Hardness (Janka)
955 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, susceptible to attack by fungi, beetles, and termites if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for lumber; finished furniture items vary widely.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 5 to 15 years old based on common manufacturing practices for mass-market hardwood furniture and minor surface wear patterns.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable; harvested from managed rubber plantations only after latex production ceases, FSC certified sources widely available.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, interior joinery, flooring, and toys.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon rainforest in South America, extensively cultivated in Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia) for rubber production.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, glues and finishes very well, though prone to warping if not properly dried.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, paints, and clear topcoats (polyurethane, lacquer) exceptionally well due to open pores and uniform density.
Notable Features
Eco-friendly utilization of agricultural waste wood from latex extraction; contains residual sugars requiring preservative treatment.