Rubberwood (also known as Parawood or Hevea)
Hevea brasiliensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the Amazon rainforest in South America, but major commercial plantations are located in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam).
- Hardness
- 955 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable to Slightly Durable. Highly susceptible to fungal decay, marine borers, and insect attack if left untreated, as it contains natural starches.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture, typically flat-sawn or plain-sawn boards with subtle growth rings.
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light yellowish-tan with little to no perceptible difference between sapwood and heartwood. It has a medium natural luster and tends to darken slightly to a warm amber tone over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
955 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Slightly Durable. Highly susceptible to fungal decay, marine borers, and insect attack if left untreated, as it contains natural starches.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot (considered an economical, eco-friendly hardwood).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively modern, likely processed within the last 5 to 15 years based on the clean factory finish and lack of deep oxidation or patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable. It is harvested from mature rubber plantations only after latex production ceases, making it a byproduct of the rubber industry. Not listed on CITES or IUCN red lists.
Common Uses
Indoor furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, children's toys, and solid wood flooring.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon rainforest in South America, but major commercial plantations are located in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam).
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well, though care must be taken during drying as it can be prone to movement and warping.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, lacquers, varnishes, and polyurethane very evenly and cleanly. Water-based or oil-based polyurethanes work well for general protection.
Notable Features
Harvested primarily for latex production before timber harvesting. Contains residual sugars and starches which require chemical treatment or kiln-drying to prevent insect infestation.