Typically a yellow to yellow-brown, which tends to darken with Has a coarse texture with medium to large pores. Grain is sometimes interlocked.Reported as non-durable in regard to decay resistance, and is also susceptible to insect attack.Typically easy to work, though any interlocked grain can present problems during planing. Some species may have a slight blunting effect on tools due to small levels of silica present in the wood. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Meranti is widely harvested and widely available worldwide. It should be moderately priced despite the fact that it is imported, though some specific species of Yellow Meranti are reported to be endangered.
Meranti is not listed in the CITES Appendices, but many species in the Shorea genus are on the IUCN Red List. The majority of Shorea species are listed as being critically endangered due to a population reduction of over 80% in the past three generations, caused by a decline in its natural range, and exploitation.
