Lauan (Meranti/Philippine Mahogany)
Shorea spp. • Exotic/Tropical
Grain Pattern
Straight to interlocked grain with a coarse, open-pored texture and subtle ribbon-like figure when quarter-sawn.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from light pink to reddish-brown; sapwood is pale yellowish-white. It has a high natural luster and tends to darken slightly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
800 lbf (Soft to Medium, depending on specific subspecies)
Durability Rating
Non-durable to Slightly Durable; low resistance to rot and insect attack; strictly for interior use.
Common Uses
Plywood, interior trim, veneer, light construction, cabinetry, and secondary furniture components.
Geographic Origin
Southeast Asia, predominantly Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
3.00 USD to 6.00 USD per board foot for solid stock; often sold as inexpensive utility plywood.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears relatively contemporary, likely manufactured within the last 10-20 years based on the surface condition and machine marks.
Sustainability Status
Several Shorea species are listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to over-harvesting; FSC certification is available but limited.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though interlocked grain can cause fuzzy surfaces or tearout during planing. Gluing and finishing are typically straightforward.
Notable Features
Often sold as 'Philippine Mahogany' despite not being a true mahogany; very lightweight with a distinct fibrous end-grain; can cause respiratory irritation in some individuals.
Finish Recommendations
Requires a grain filler for a smooth finish due to open pores. Responds well to stain, lacquer, and oil-based polyurethane.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the coarse grain, salmon-pink hue, and thin veneer-like appearance on a thick core are hallmark traits of commercial Lauan/Meranti utility products.