Lauan (Philippine Mahogany)
Shorea spp. · Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Type
- Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
- Origin
- Southeast Asia, primarily the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
- Hardness
- 420 lbf (Very Soft) to 800 lbf (Soft) depending on specific Shorea species
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; low resistance to rot and insect attack, poor weathering characteristics without treatment.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked, open coarse texture with long linear pores. Flat-sawn appearance common in plywood veneers.
Color & Appearance
Reddish-brown to light pinkish-tan heartwood. Sapwood is typically pale yellow. Low to moderate luster, tends to gray or darken slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
420 lbf (Very Soft) to 800 lbf (Soft) depending on specific Shorea species
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; low resistance to rot and insect attack, poor weathering characteristics without treatment.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 - $6.00 per board foot (standard lumber) or $30-$60 per 4x8 plywood sheet.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern (1-5 years); the surface shows fresh mill marks, lack of patina, and typical mass-produced plywood texture.
- Sustainability Status
- Many species are IUCN Red List vulnerable or endangered; CITES Appendix II for some related timber, FSC available but inconsistent.
Common Uses
Plywood cores, utility veneers, hollow-core doors, drawer bottoms, subflooring, and inexpensive furniture components.
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia, primarily the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Workability
Easily worked with hand and machine tools due to low density, though fuzzy grain can occur during sanding. glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Requires a sanding sealer or grain filler for a smooth finish due to open pores. Responds well to lacquer, polyurethane, and oil-based stains.
Notable Features
Often has a distinct moderate cedar-like scent when freshly cut; stringy, fibrous texture that can cause splinters. Often sold as Meranti.
