Rubberwood (alternatively Mango or Monkeypod)
Hevea brasiliensis • Hardwood / Plantation Grown
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a coarse, open-pore texture; some visible spalting and mineral streaks are present in this specific sample.
Color Description
Naturally light blonde to medium tan heartwood, often stained to a medium amber/teak color as seen here. Shows moderate luster and minimal chatoyance.
Hardness Rating
995 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; very susceptible to decay and insect attack if not treated; typically used for indoor applications only.
Common Uses
Mass-produced furniture, kitchen butcher blocks, cabinetry, flooring, and small wooden household items.
Geographic Origin
Native to Brazil, but primarily commercially grown in Southeast Asian plantations (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $5.00 per board foot (economical hardwood).
Wood Age Estimate
Modern (5-15 years), likely a contemporary furniture piece given the finger-jointed/butcher block construction pattern.
Sustainability Status
Highly sustainable; harvested from rubber plantations at the end of their latex-producing cycle.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the high latex/sap content can occasionally gum up blades. Glue and stains very well.
Notable Features
Often called 'Parawood'; it is an eco-friendly 'green' wood because it makes use of trees that are essentially a waste product of the latex industry.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer works best for protection. Since it is naturally light, it is frequently seen with a 'honey' or 'walnut' stain to mimic more expensive woods.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the coarse grain, specific pore structure, and assembly method (butcher block style) are classic indicators of Rubberwood used in modern furniture.