Rubberwood
Hevea brasiliensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the Amazon rainforest, but predominantly cultivated in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia) and West Africa.
- Hardness
- 960 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay, marine borers, and insect attack if untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium to coarse uniform texture, commonly flat-sawn or quarter-sawn in manufactured furniture components.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light yellowish-brown, sometimes with a pinkish hue; little discernible difference between sapwood and heartwood; low luster.
Hardness (Janka)
960 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay, marine borers, and insect attack if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot (typically sold as finished components rather than rough lumber).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively modern, likely harvested and manufactured within the last 10 to 30 years based on the uniform milling and furniture construction style.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable and eco-friendly; harvested from established plantations after the latex-producing lifecycle of the tree ends (typically 25-30 years). Not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Indoor furniture, cabinetry, flooring, cutting boards, children's toys, and medium-density fiberboard (MDF).
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon rainforest, but predominantly cultivated in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia) and West Africa.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can dull cutting edges due to silica content. Glues, stains, and finishes very well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, paints, and clear finishes (polyurethane, lacquer, oil) exceptionally well, though pre-conditioning may be needed for uniform stain absorption.
Notable Features
Contains residual natural rubber latex when freshly cut, though kiln-dried lumber is inert. Prone to dimensional instability and insect attack if not properly treated with preservatives.