Rubberwood
Hevea brasiliensis · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to the Amazon rainforest in South America, but commercially cultivated extensively throughout Southeast Asia (primarily Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia).
- Hardness
- 955 lbf (Medium)
- Durability
- Non-durable, highly susceptible to fungal decay and insect attacks if untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly interlocked grain with a medium to coarse uniform texture, often showing distinct growth ring boundaries in edge-glued panels.
Color & Appearance
Light blonde to medium tan with distinct reddish-brown color variations across different staves in the glued panel. Has a medium natural luster and darkens slightly to a more amber hue upon prolonged exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
955 lbf (Medium)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable, highly susceptible to fungal decay and insect attacks if untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderately low, typically ranging from $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot as it is widely utilized for economical furniture and utility items.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively modern, approximately 1 to 5 years old based on typical factory-processed edge-glued panel condition.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly sustainable and eco-friendly. Sourced from plantation trees that have completed their latex-producing lifecycle (typically 25-30 years), after which they are harvested for lumber.
Common Uses
Indoor furniture, cutting boards, tabletops, cabinetry, flooring, and toys.
Geographic Origin
Native to the Amazon rainforest in South America, but commercially cultivated extensively throughout Southeast Asia (primarily Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia).
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Glues, turns, and finishes very well, though care must be taken during drying as it is prone to shrinkage and movement.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, polyurethane, lacquer, and oils very well. Food-safe mineral oil or beeswax blends are frequently used for kitchen items and cutting boards made from this species.
Notable Features
Contains residual natural latex and sugars before treatment, making raw wood highly attractive to insects and fungi, which necessitates chemical or thermal treatment (boron treatment) prior to use.