Rubberwood (often finished as Faux Cherry or Walnut)
Hevea brasiliensis • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture. The visible sample shows a flat-sawn appearance typical of mass-produced furniture panels.
Color Description
Naturally light blonde to medium tan; however, this sample has been stained to a medium brown 'fruitwood' or walnut tone. Features characteristic artificial 'fly-specking' (dark dots) added during the finishing process to mimic aged hardwood.
Hardness Rating
~935 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay and insect attack if not treated. Intended for indoor use only.
Common Uses
Mass-produced furniture, cabinetry, kitchen accessories, and flooring.
Geographic Origin
Native to Brazil, but commercially grown in plantations across Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $5.00 per board foot (typically sold as finished furniture components rather than raw lumber).
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (likely 5-15 years old). The wear patterns and factory-applied 'distressed' finish suggest contemporary retail furniture.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; it is a byproduct of the latex (rubber) industry, harvested only after the trees cease commercial latex production.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has high starch content which can attract insects and requires rapid kiln drying to prevent staining.
Notable Features
Often called 'Parawood'. It has a very subtle sour odor when freshly cut. The sample features 'distressed' finishing marks (nicks and speckles) popular in mid-market furniture.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains well due to its light natural color. Requires a topcoat like polyurethane or lacquer to protect its relatively soft surface from scratches.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The grain structure, the specific type of artificial distressing (speckling), and the panel construction are classic hallmarks of Rubberwood furniture imported from Asia.