Rubberwood
Hevea brasiliensis • Exotic/Tropical (Hardwood)
Grain Pattern
Straight with a somewhat coarse, open texture. Shows a slightly wavy, ribbon-like character in some sections but lacks distinct growth ring definition typical of temperate hardwoods.
Color Description
Straw-to-blonde light tan color. The heartwood and sapwood are not clearly demarcated. It tends to yellow or darken slightly to a deeper golden brown with light exposure over time.
Hardness Rating
960 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay and insect attack if not chemically treated during processing.
Common Uses
Low-cost furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, kitchen accessories, children's toys, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon Rainforest (South America), but primarily grown in massive plantations across Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $5.50 per board foot (primarily sold as dimensioned lumber or finished goods rather than raw slabs).
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be from a commercially manufactured piece of furniture roughly 5-15 years old, indicated by the surface wear, light oxidation of the finish, and clear-coat scuffing.
Sustainability Status
Highly Sustainable; considered an eco-friendly 'byproduct' wood as it is harvested after the trees complete their latex-producing cycle (approx. 25-30 years). Not CITES listed.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It glues and finishes well, though it has a high tendency to 'fuzz' if tools are not sharp due to its medium density.
Notable Features
Often referred to as 'Parawood' or 'Plantation Oak'. It is known for having very low shrinkage after seasoning, making it dimensionally stable for indoor furniture.
Finish Recommendations
Film-building finishes like polyurethane or lacquer work best to protect the relatively soft surface; it takes stains moderately well if a pre-stain conditioner is used to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the light straw color, specific coarse pore structure, 'mealy' surface texture visible in the grain, and its application in a curved furniture component is diagnostic for Rubberwood.