Keruing
Scientific name: Dipterocarpus genus
Overview
Keruing is a heavy, durable Southeast Asian hardwood commonly used in structural and industrial applications. Native to Malaysia, Indonesia, and surrounding regions, it is valued for its strength, toughness, and resistance to wear.
While not as decorative as species like Narra or Padauk, Keruing plays an important role in heavy-duty construction and utility woodworking.
Quick Facts
- Common Name: Keruing
- Scientific Name: Dipterocarpus genus
- Region: Asian Hardwoods (Southeast Asia – Malaysia, Indonesia & Philippines)
- Tree Size: 100–180 ft tall, 3–6 ft trunk diameter
- Average Dried Weight: 49 lbs/ft³ (785 kg/m³)
- Janka Hardness: 1,270 lbf
- Color: Reddish brown to dark brown
- Grain: Interlocked
- Texture: Medium to coarse
Identification Characteristics
Keruing is identified by its medium to dark reddish-brown heartwood and moderately coarse texture. The grain is usually straight but may show slight interlocking. Resin canals may occasionally be visible.
Sapwood is lighter and clearly differentiated from the heartwood.
Key identification traits include:
- ULight to reddish-brown heartwood
- Medium to coarse texture
- Visible open pores
- Occasional resin streaks
Working Properties
Keruing is strong and durable but can be moderately difficult to work due to density and resin content.
- Machines fairly well with sharp tools
- May contain resin that gums tools
- Sands to a smooth finish
- Good dimensional stability
- Strong holding power for fasteners
Pre-drilling is recommended for screws.
Safety Note
Dust from Keruing may cause skin or respiratory irritation in some individuals. Resin content can also cause sensitivity. Proper dust collection and protective equipment are recommended.
Common Uses
Keruing is widely used in structural and industrial applications, including:
- Heavy construction
- Flooring
- Truck beds and trailer decking
- Marine applications
- Exterior beams
Highly figured Bubinga is often reserved for accent pieces or focal surfaces.
Sustainability & Notes
Its durability and strength make it especially valued for demanding environments.
Comparative Notes & Related Species
Balau – A dense Southeast Asian hardwood often used for decking and heavy outdoor construction due to its strength and durability.
Kapur – A tropical hardwood commonly used in structural and exterior applications, generally lighter and somewhat easier to work than Keruing.
Bangkirai – Another durable hardwood used in decking and exterior construction, known for its strength and resistance to wear.
Related Guides
How to Identify Exotic Hardwood by Grain Pattern
Studying grain texture and color variation helps distinguish Southeast Asian hardwoods used in construction and exterior projects.
Density & Hardness Explained (Janka Scale Guide)
Understanding hardness ratings helps explain the durability and strength of hardwood species.
Drying & Acclimating Exotic Woods
Proper drying and acclimation help maintain stability and reduce movement in hardwood lumber used for woodworking and construction.
Compare Wood Properties
See how this species ranks in density and hardness using our Wood Density & Janka Hardness Chart. You can also explore Hardest Woods, Softest Woods, and Most Dense Woods for quick comparisons.
Collector Notes
Keruing is valued more for its durability and strength than decorative qualities. Boards with consistent color and minimal resin pockets are generally preferred.
Due to its industrial use history, well-preserved older stock can be of particular interest.
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Wood Sample Collection
This species is part of an ongoing effort to document and preserve wood samples from around the world.
Learn more about contributing to the collection:
Resources
Authoritative botanical and forestry references used in compiling information about this species include:
• USDA Forest Service – Wood Handbook: Wood as an Engineering Material
https://www.fpl.fs.usda.gov/products/publications/
• The Wood Database – Global reference for wood identification, physical properties, and woodworking characteristics
https://www.wood-database.com/
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Plants of the World Online – Botanical taxonomy and species distribution database
https://powo.science.kew.org/
• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN Red List) – Global conservation status assessments
https://www.iucnredlist.org/
• Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) – International trade regulations for protected plant species
https://cites.org/
Additional forestry publications, academic research papers, and regional timber studies may also be referenced where available.
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Availability & Where to Buy
Exotic hardwood availability can vary significantly depending on region, sustainability regulations, and supplier inventory.
As this archive grows, recommended suppliers and specialty wood retailers will be listed here to help woodworkers locate responsibly sourced material.
Lumber Suppliers:
Availability varies — see the Where to Buy Exotic Woods page for current sources.
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