Rubberwood
Hevea brasiliensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the Amazon Basin in South America, but commercially cultivated extensively across Southeast Asia (particularly Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia).
- Hardness
- 955 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay, powderpost beetles, and termite attacks if untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to shallowly interlocked with a medium to coarse texture and a subtle cathedral pattern on flat-sawn surfaces.
Color & Appearance
Light blonde to medium tan with a slight pinkish or yellowish tint; little distinction between heartwood and sapwood; darkens slightly with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
955 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to fungal decay, powderpost beetles, and termite attacks if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderately low, approximately $2.00 to $4.00 per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively recent, between 5 to 15 years old based on modern milling marks and uniform surface treatment.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable; harvested from plantation trees at the end of their latex-producing lifecycle, often certified by FSC.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, flooring, cutting boards, and interior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon Basin in South America, but commercially cultivated extensively across Southeast Asia (particularly Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia).
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can occasionally tear out during planing of interlocked grain. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, paints, and clear finishes (polyurethane, lacquer, oil) very well with minimal special preparation.
Notable Features
High dimensional stability after kiln drying; absorbs stains and finishes exceptionally evenly; requires chemical treatment after harvesting to prevent insect and fungal attack.