Rubberwood (Hevea)
Hevea brasiliensis • Hardwood / Exotic
Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly interlocked with a coarse, open texture; consistent pores visible as small striations
Color Description
Off-white to light brown/cream heartwood with occasional yellowish or pinkish tints; sapwood not clearly demarcated from heartwood; darkens slightly to a straw color over time
Hardness Rating
960 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Non-durable; susceptible to decay and insect attack if not chemically treated; low resistance to moisture
Common Uses
Low-cost furniture, cabinetry, kitchen accessories (cutting boards), children's toys, and internal furniture framing
Geographic Origin
Native to Brazil (Amazon Basin), but extensively grown in plantations throughout Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $5.00 per board foot (standard retail)
Wood Age Estimate
Modern processing; likely within the last 10-20 years based on the furniture style and typical plantation harvesting cycles
Sustainability Status
Very sustainable; harvested from rubber plantations at the end of their latex-producing cycle (approx. 25-30 years); not CITES listed
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools; glues and finishes well; can occasionally have a slightly rubbery smell when cut; prone to bowing if not dried correctly
Notable Features
Often referred to as "Parawood" or "Malaysian Oak"; contains residual latex and starch that attracts fungi/insects necessitating chemical treatment for commercial use
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and paints very well due to its light color and open grain; clear polyurethane or lacquer is most common for protecting its soft surface
Identification Confidence
High; the pale cream color with distinct coarse pores, subtle grain-swirls, and the specific application in a mass-produced furniture leg are classic indicators of Rubberwood