Rubberwood (also known as Parawood)
Hevea brasiliensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the Amazon rainforest in South America, but commercially cultivated extensively throughout Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia).
- Hardness
- 960 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable; susceptible to fungi, rot, and insect attacks if untreated since it is harvested from rubber plantations after latex production ceases.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to shallowly interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture; flat-sawn surface showing subtle growth rings.
Color & Appearance
Light blonde to pale cream or light tan color with very little difference between heartwood and sapwood. Moderate natural luster and darkens slightly to a yellowish tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
960 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable; susceptible to fungi, rot, and insect attacks if untreated since it is harvested from rubber plantations after latex production ceases.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot (economical and widely available as an eco-friendly plantation wood).
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively recent (0 to 5 years old based on clean, modern manufactured appearance and lack of heavy patina).
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable. Sourced from plantation trees that have completed their latex-producing lifecycle and would otherwise be destroyed.
Common Uses
Indoor furniture, cabinetry, cutting boards, flooring, small wooden toys, and coasters.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon rainforest in South America, but commercially cultivated extensively throughout Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia).
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Glues, turns, and finishes well, though it can sometimes be prone to warping if not properly dried.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, paints, and clear finishes (polyurethane, lacquer, or oils) very well. Pre-conditioning may help achieve an even color when staining.
Notable Features
Environmentally friendly byproduct of the rubber industry; dense and stable when kiln-dried; contains residual sugars that make it attractive to insects if not chemically treated.
