Rubberwood
Hevea brasiliensis • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked with a coarse, open-pored texture; features prominent vascular lines that appear as long, thin brown streaks on flat-sawn surfaces.
Color Description
Pale blonde to light cream or yellowish-brown; heartwood and sapwood are not clearly demarcated. It lacks significant luster and can develop a slight pink or cinnamon hue over time.
Hardness Rating
935 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack if not chemically treated; low resistance to moisture.
Common Uses
Budget-friendly furniture, kitchen accessories (cutting boards, knife blocks), cabinetry, toys, and indoor flooring.
Geographic Origin
Native to Brazil (Amazon Basin), but commercially grown extensively in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $5.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively young wood (25-30 years), as trees are harvested for timber only after their latex-producing cycle is complete.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; it is a byproduct of the latex industry, utilizing trees that would otherwise be burned after they stop producing rubber.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though its high starch content can attract fungi during drying and may cause slight blunting of sharp edges.
Notable Features
Often referred to as "Plantation Hardwood" or "Parawood"; contains residual latex and high starch levels; virtually no scent.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and clear coats well; however, due to its porous nature, a sanding sealer is recommended to achieve an even finish.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of very light straw color and distinct, large open pores appearing as brown streaks is characteristic of Hevea brasiliensis.