Meranti
Shorea spp. · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
- Hardness
- 610 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Interlocked to straight grain with a medium to coarse texture, showing a subtle cathedral pattern from flat-sawn veneer or lumber processing.
Color & Appearance
Medium to reddish-brown with variable color tones across the surface, possessing a natural golden-brown luster that tends to darken moderately with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
610 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and thickness.
- Wood Age Estimate
- 20 to 40 years old based on surface oxidation, wear patterns, and patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Many Shorea species are listed on the IUCN Red List as endangered due to overharvesting, though some plantation sources and certified options exist.
Common Uses
Plywood, interior cabinetry, light construction, furniture framing, and general millwork.
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can occasionally cause tear-out during planing; glues, stains, and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, lacquers, and varnishes very well; grain filler may be needed due to the open texture to achieve a smooth, glossy surface.
Notable Features
Often referred to as Philippine mahogany, it has open pores and moderate weight with fair dimensional stability.
