Rubberwood (Hevea / Parawood), stained to resemble Walnut or Mahogany
Hevea brasiliensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the Amazon basin; extensively cultivated in commercial plantations across Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
- Hardness
- 960 lbf (Medium Hardness)
- Durability
- Slightly Durable to Non-durable naturally; highly susceptible to fungal decay and insect attack unless treated, but suitable for interior indoor furniture.
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Grain Pattern
Mostly straight to slightly interlocked grain with fine to medium pores. Displays moderate cathedral patterns typical of flat-sawn edge-glued panels.
Color & Appearance
Finished with a medium-to-dark amber brown stain mimicking walnut. Naturally, raw rubberwood ranges from light cream to straw yellow, but stains readily.
Hardness (Janka)
960 lbf (Medium Hardness)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly Durable to Non-durable naturally; highly susceptible to fungal decay and insect attack unless treated, but suitable for interior indoor furniture.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.50 - $6.00 per board foot (lumber form); low cost due to widespread commercial plantation sourcing.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Finished furniture component estimated between 10 to 25 years old based on clear topcoat degradation, minor surface scratching, and polyurethane wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable eco-friendly wood harvested at the end of the rubber tree's latex-producing lifespan (25–30 years). Not CITES listed; IUCN status Least Concern.
Common Uses
Mass-produced indoor furniture (chairs, dining tables, stools), cabinetry, cutting boards, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon basin; extensively cultivated in commercial plantations across Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia).
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools; glues, sands, and finishes exceptionally well, though latex residue can occasionally clog sanding belts.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or wiped-on varnish works best over a stain. Sealers are recommended to lock in dyes and prevent blotching.
Notable Features
Dense, uniform texture that takes dark stains easily to imitate expensive hardwoods; faint sweet smell when freshly cut; moderate weight.