Rubberwood
Hevea brasiliensis • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a coarse, open texture; consistent pores visible in the end-grain turning.
Color Description
Naturally light blonde to medium tan heartwood; often stained dark (as seen in the outer rim) to mimic Cherry or Mahogany. Very little natural luster.
Hardness Rating
935 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if not treated with preservatives or kept in dry indoor environments.
Common Uses
Mass-produced furniture, kitchen accessories, cabinetry, flooring, and toys.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon Rainforest, but now primarily grown in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $5.00 per board foot (one of the most economical hardwoods).
Wood Age Estimate
Modern era (10-30 years); consistent with contemporary furniture components and mass-manufacturing techniques.
Sustainability Status
Extremely Sustainable; harvested from plantation trees that have reached the end of their latex-producing cycle.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has high starch content which can attract insects if not dried properly. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Often called 'Parawood'; contains natural latex (sap). It is a 'green' wood because it uses trees that would otherwise be burned.
Finish Recommendations
Requires a sealer or grain filler for a smooth finish due to open pores; takes dark stains very well to imitate more expensive tropical woods.
Identification Confidence
High; the light-colored end grain showing coarse pores combined with the dark-stained exterior is a hallmark of mass-produced Rubberwood furniture parts.