Rubberwood (with dark cherry/mahogany stain)
Hevea brasiliensis • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture. Visible vessel elements appear as dark, narrow streaks (pores) consistent with flat-sawn commercial furniture production.
Color Description
Naturally light blonde to medium tan, but here it is stained to a deep reddish-brown (Cherry/Mahogany tone). The finish shows moderate luster, obscured natural chatoyance, and uniform color application common in mass-produced seating.
Hardness Rating
935 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if not treated. Intended strictly for indoor use.
Common Uses
Budget-friendly furniture, cabinetry, kitchen accessories, and indoor seating.
Geographic Origin
Native to Brazil; now grown in massive plantations across Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 - $4.00 per board foot (lumber), though typically sold as finished consumer goods.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (less than 20 years old). The factory-applied film finish and uniform machining suggest contemporary manufacturing.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; wood is harvested from latex-producing trees at the end of their productive life cycle (approx. 25-30 years). Not CITES listed.
Workability
Easy to machine and turn. Sands well, but can sometimes have 'fuzzy' grain. It takes stains and finishes very well, which is why it is frequently used to mimic more expensive woods.
Notable Features
Often referred to as 'Parawood'. It contains residual natural latex which can occasionally cause mild reactions in sensitive individuals during woodworking. Very low shrinkage after kiln drying.
Finish Recommendations
Best suited for film-forming finishes like the visible lacquer or polyurethane. Requires a sealer/stain to hide its naturally plain appearance.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High. The visible pore structure and the specific style of the chair spindles and cross-rail are hallmarks of Southeast Asian rubberwood furniture exports commonly sold in big-box retailers.