Rubberwood (Parawood)
Hevea brasiliensis • Exotic/Tropical Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked with a coarse, open texture; consistent pores visible on the surface producing a somewhat stringy appearance
Color Description
Light blonde to pale cream color with occasional yellowish or brownish streaks; sapwood and heartwood are not clearly demarcated; darkens slightly to a straw-yellow over time
Hardness Rating
980 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay and insect attack if not treated with preservatives; primarily intended for indoor use
Common Uses
Budget furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, children's toys, and small kitchen accessories
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon Rainforest; commercially grown in plantations across Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $5.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Modern sample; likely processed within the last 1–3 years based on lack of significant oxidation and fresh mill marks
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; wood is harvested from plantation trees that have reached the end of their latex-producing cycle (approx. 25-30 years)
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools; glues and finishes well, though large pores may require grain filler for a glass-smooth surface
Notable Features
Often referred to as 'Eco-friendly wood' or 'Malaysian Oak'; has a faint sour odor when being machined; low shrinkage and stable once cured
Finish Recommendations
Varnish or polyurethane are best for durability; clear oil finishes enhance the pale color, but avoid heavy staining which can look blotchy due to uneven density
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the pale cream color, distinctive large uniform pores, and the presence of light grayish fungal staining (common in Rubberwood) is characteristic