Rubberwood
Hevea brasiliensis • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a coarse, open texture and large pores visible on the surface.
Color Description
Light blonde to yellowish-brown heartwood, sometimes with a pinkish tint; sapwood is not clearly demarcated. It tends to darken slightly to a more uniform tan color over time.
Hardness Rating
995 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable. It is susceptible to fungus, rot, and insect attacks but is very stable once kiln-dried.
Common Uses
Furniture, kitchenware (spatulas, bowls), indoor flooring, cabinetry, toys, and particleboard.
Geographic Origin
Native to Brazil (Amazon Basin); widely cultivated in plantations across Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $5.00 per board foot (low cost, typically sold as finished components).
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears modern (less than 5-10 years old) based on its light color and minimal oxidation.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; it is a byproduct of the latex industry, harvested only after the tree stops producing rubber (at approx. 25-30 years).
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though its latex content can sometimes gum up blades and sandpaper. It glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Faint sour odor when being worked; known as one of the most eco-friendly woods due to its plantation lifecycle.
Finish Recommendations
Food-grade mineral oil or beeswax (for this kitchen tool); lacquers and stains also take well for furniture applications.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic pore structure, color, and its use in mass-produced kitchen utensils are classic indicators of Rubberwood.