Rubberwood
Hevea brasiliensis • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a coarse, open texture; visible large pores and occasional small knots or swirls as seen in the sample.
Color Description
Pale cream to light yellowish-brown heartwood with little distinction from sapwood; color tends to darken or yellow slightly with age and exposure to light; generally low luster.
Hardness Rating
935 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if not treated with preservatives shortly after harvesting.
Common Uses
Budget-friendly furniture, kitchen accessories (cutting boards, bowls), cabinetry, interior millwork, and as a core material for plywood or engineered flooring.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon Rainforest (Brazil); extensively grown in plantations throughout Tropical Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $5.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively young (under 5 years since processing); the lack of deep patina and the presence of fresh surface marks suggest modern commercial stock.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; typically harvested from rubber plantations after the trees reach the end of their latex-producing cycle (approx. 25-30 years).
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools; however, the high latex/resin content can occasionally gum up blades and sandpaper; glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often referred to as "Parawood"; possesses a mild, sour odor when being worked; known for very low shrinkage after seasoning.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and clear coats well; due to its light, uniform color, it is often stained to mimic more expensive woods like cherry or oak; a film-building finish like polyurethane is recommended for durability.
Identification Confidence
High; the light straw color, characteristic large pore structure, and specific grain swirl around small knots are hallmark features of plantation-grown Hevea brasiliensis.