Rubberwood (Parawood) / Hevea
Hevea brasiliensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the Amazon basin; extensively cultivated in plantations across Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
- Hardness
- 960 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if untreated, but well-protected here under a sealed clear finish for interior use.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with coarse texture and visible medium-to-large pores consistent with tropical hardwoods commonly used in turned kitchenware.
Color & Appearance
Light blond to yellowish-tan color with warm light brown undertones, featuring characteristic slightly darker mineral streaks and a high-gloss clear protective finish.
Hardness (Janka)
960 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if untreated, but well-protected here under a sealed clear finish for interior use.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 - $6.00 per board foot (lumber grade); highly economical commercial wood.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern production (estimated 5 to 15 years old), showing mild surface wear, slight handling patina, and small natural surface marks under the finish.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly Sustainable / Eco-friendly. Harvested as a secondary byproduct from latex-producing rubber trees after their latex cycle finishes. Not CITES listed and Least Concern on IUCN Red List.
Common Uses
Turned kitchenware (pepper mills, salad bowls, cutting boards), light-colored furniture, cabinetry, interior millwork, and wooden toys.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon basin; extensively cultivated in plantations across Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
Workability
Turns easily on a lathe, cuts cleanly, sands to a smooth surface, and glues well; prone to fuzzing if tools are not sharp due to fibrous cell structure.
Finish Recommendations
Requires a protective seal to prevent moisture absorption; clear polyurethane, lacquer, or food-safe mineral oil/wax blends are standard for kitchen items.
Notable Features
Slightly sweet scent when freshly worked, latex content in living trees, diffuse-porous structure visible as pale speckling in turned contours, light weight for a hardwood.