Rubberwood (Parawood)
Hevea brasiliensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to tropical South America (Amazon basin), but commercially harvested extensively in plantations across Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
- Hardness
- 960 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to fungal rot, decay, and insect/borer attack if untreated or exposed to moisture.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a coarse, open texture and visible vessel elements along the face grain. Very little natural figure present.
Color & Appearance
Light blonde to pale straw-yellow sapwood with subtle light brown streaks. The wood exhibits low natural luster and tends to darken slightly to a warm amber over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
960 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to fungal rot, decay, and insect/borer attack if untreated or exposed to moisture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 - $6.00 per board foot (or as processed furniture components).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern sample, likely harvested from plantation trees aged 25 to 30 years and processed into lumber recently (0-5 years of age).
- Sustainability Status
- Extremely sustainable; harvested as an agricultural byproduct at the end of the tree's latex-producing lifecycle. Non-CITES listed and IUCN Least Concern.
Common Uses
Flat-pack and ready-to-assemble furniture, interior cabinetry, butcher blocks, cutting boards, turnings, and indoor millwork.
Geographic Origin
Native to tropical South America (Amazon basin), but commercially harvested extensively in plantations across Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
Workability
Works easily with both hand and machine tools. Planes and sands well, glues reliably, and holds screws well, though high latex content can sometimes dull sharp cutting edges slightly faster than average.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, oils, and topcoats easily. Takes wood filler well if a smooth surface is needed due to open pores. Clear polyurethane, lacquer, or food-safe mineral oils/waxes (for cutting boards) are highly recommended.
Notable Features
Eco-friendly timber source, low natural decay resistance without treatment, uniform texture, faint sweet aroma when freshly cut, and mild latex allergen risk for sensitive individuals.