Rubberwood
Hevea brasiliensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the Amazon basin in South America, but widely cultivated in plantation systems across Southeast Asia (particularly Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia)
- Hardness
- 955 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable (susceptible to decay, fungi, and insect attack if untreated)
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium to coarse texture, often featuring subtle cathedrals and plain-sawn patterns typical of utility furniture stock.
Color & Appearance
Light blonde to medium tan when unfinished, though this sample has been heavily stained to a medium-dark warm brown finish with good clarity and low natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
955 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable (susceptible to decay, fungi, and insect attack if untreated)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot (or typically sold as finished components and furniture blanks)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 5 to 15 years old, representing manufactured commercial indoor furniture with light surface wear and minor scuffs.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable; harvested from established agricultural plantations after latex production ceases, unlisted in CITES and not threatened by IUCN.
Common Uses
Indoor furniture, dining sets, cabinetry, toys, and medium-density fiberboard (MDF) production
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon basin in South America, but widely cultivated in plantation systems across Southeast Asia (particularly Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia)
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can occasionally warp or shrink during drying; glues, stains, and finishes exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, paints, and clear topcoats (lacquer, polyurethane) very well due to its uniform porosity, though proper sanding is required to remove machining marks.
Notable Features
Contains residual latex before processing, highly stable when properly kiln-dried, and prized as an eco-friendly plantation timber.