Parawood (Rubberwood)
Hevea brasiliensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the Amazon basin in South America, but predominantly cultivated in Southeast Asia (such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia) for rubber production.
- Hardness
- 1000 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to fungi, rot, and insect attack if not treated, as it contains natural starches and sugars.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture, showing distinct growth rings and characteristic dark speckling (pith flecks/latex vessel marks).
Color & Appearance
Pale cream to light yellowish-brown, sometimes with a pinkish hue. There is little difference between sapwood and heartwood. It tends to darken slightly to a more golden straw color upon aging and exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
1000 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to fungi, rot, and insect attack if not treated, as it contains natural starches and sugars.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderately low, typically ranging from $3.00 to $5.00 per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently milled or manufactured, estimated between 1 to 5 years old based on clean surface, lack of deep oxidation, and modern finishing marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable. It is a byproduct of the rubber latex industry, harvested from older rubber trees that are replanted after latex production ceases. Not CITES listed and readily available.
Common Uses
Furniture, cabinetry, toys, cutting boards, flooring, and interior joinery.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon basin in South America, but predominantly cultivated in Southeast Asia (such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia) for rubber production.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can absorb finishes unevenly if not properly sealed. Prone to insect attack and fungal staining if improperly dried.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, paints, and clear coats (polyurethane, lacquer, oil) very well, but pre-stain wood conditioner is recommended to ensure even color absorption.
Notable Features
Contains residual sugars and starches making it attractive to insects unless chemically treated. It is an environmentally friendly plantation wood utilized widely in eco-friendly furniture.