Parawood
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Commonly known as the rubber tree or Para rubber tree Parawood is native to the Amazon Region of South America. Information can be traced back to Christopher Columbus when during his second visit to South America, he wondered about the heavy black ball the natives were using in games. This ball was made from the vegetable gum of the Parawood tree. In the 19th Century Henry Wickham, of England, transported some seeds to England for germination. The resulting seedlings were then taken to the Malay Peninsula for planting, where began the Great Rubber Plantations of Malaysia.
After 25 to 30 years of latex production, the tree ceases to produce sufficient quantities of latex. The tree is cut for processing in the manufacture of fine furniture and a new tree is planted in its place. This is an example of man’s ability to fully utilize our natural resources, without harming the environment.
Parawood is very hard and very prevalent in the furniture industry because of its durability. Many furniture stores carry parawood furniture. It's sometimes referred to as Malaysian Oak because of its strength.
Density: 7+ (Birch 7, Ash 8)
Strength Group: S6 (same as maple)
Color: Pale yellow.
Grain: Open grain similar to mahogany.
Characteristics: A very hard wood.
Finishing: Takes a very even stain
