Rubberwood
Hevea brasiliensis • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked with a coarse, open texture; occasional small wavy patterns and large pores are visible in this turned sample.
Color Description
Light blonde to pale cream color with a yellowish cast; sapwood and heartwood are not clearly demarcated. It turns slightly darker gold with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
980 lbf (Medium Hardness)
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 (bowls/trays), and children's toys.
Geographic Origin
Native to Brazil (Amazon Basin); extensively grown on plantations in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 to $4.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Estimated 5-10 years post-harvest; the item shows minor surface wear and oxidation consistent with a modern mass-produced homeware item.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; used as an eco-friendly byproduct of the latex industry after the tree's rubber-producing life ends.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes well, though its high starch content can attract insects if untreated.
Notable Features
Often referred to as "Parawood" or "Malaysian Oak"; has a characteristic high latex/sap content that can occasionally foul sandpaper.
Finish Recommendations
Clear polyurethane or lacquer is most common for furniture; for kitchen use (like this bowl), food-grade mineral oil or beeswax is recommended.
Identification Confidence
High; the pale yellowish-cream color, uniform texture, and appearance of the turned grain are diagnostic for plantation-grown Hevea brasiliensis used in housewares.