Red Meranti — Shorea spp.

Red Meranti

Shorea spp. · Exotic/Tropical

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Exotic/Tropical
Origin
Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Hardness
580 lbf (Soft to Medium)
Durability
Moderately Durable to Non-durable regarding decay and insect attack.

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Grain Pattern

Interlocked grain with a somewhat coarse texture and prominent vertical striping typical of quarter-sawn tropical hardwoods.

Color & Appearance

Medium to dark reddish-brown heartwood with paler pinkish-brown sapwood. Displays moderate natural luster which tends to darken slightly upon UV exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

580 lbf (Soft to Medium)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable to Non-durable regarding decay and insect attack.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

3.50 to 6.00 USD per board foot.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Estimated to be moderately aged (several decades old) based on the oxidation and surface patina visible.

Common Uses

Interior cabinetry, furniture, plywood manufacturing, molding, and general light construction.

Geographic Origin

Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Workability

Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause tearout during planing. Glues, stains, and finishes well.

Finish Recommendations

Takes stains and varnishes very well. A grain filler may be required prior to applying clear topcoats like polyurethane or lacquer due to the open pore structure.

Notable Features

Characterized by open pores, medium-to-coarse texture, and distinctive ribbon-like grain figures when quarter-sawn.

Learn more about Red Meranti in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 28, 2026