Rubberwood (also known as Parawood or Hevea)
Hevea brasiliensis • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked with a coarse, open-pored texture; uniform appearance with little to no visible figure
Color Description
Pale blonde to light cream-colored heartwood; sapwood and heartwood are not clearly distinguished; tends to darken to a yellowish-brown with age and UV exposure
Hardness Rating
960 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay and insect attack (especially powder post beetles) if not treated
Common Uses
Low-cost furniture, kitchen accessories (cutting boards, knife blocks), toys, cabinetry, and flooring
Geographic Origin
Native to Brazil (Amazon Basin), but extensively grown in plantations across Southeast Asia
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.50 - $5.50 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Recently processed (under 1-2 years); the presence of fresh mill marks and lack of oxidation/patina suggest a young timber
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; harvested from plantation trees that have reached the end of their latex-producing cycle; not listed in CITES or IUCN Red List
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools; however, high latex/sap content can occasionally gum up saw blades and sandpaper
Notable Features
Often referred to as 'Environmentally Friendly' wood; contains residual latex which can cause reactions in sensitized individuals; faint sap-like scent when freshly cut
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though a sealer is recommended due to its absorbent and porous nature; clear lacquer or polyurethane is standard
Identification Confidence
High; the pale uniform color, characteristic 'fuzzy' surface texture from rough milling, and typical plantation-cut dimensions are classic indicators of Hevea