Rubber tree - Ficus elastica (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Rubber tree

Also known as: Rubber fig, Indian rubber plant

Rubber tree (Ficus elastica) is a large tree with wide, oval, glossy leaves. Its milky white latex was used for making rubber before Pará rubber tree came into use, hence the name. Rubber tree is an ornamental species, often grown as a houseplant in cooler climates.

Scientific classification

Species

Rubber tree (Ficus elastica)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

20 m to 40 m

Plant Height

10 m

Spread

Green, Variegated

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green

Fruit Color

Green

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Rubber tree

Distribution of Rubber tree

Distribution Map

Rubber tree is native to south and southeast Asia, where it grows in several types of light forests and shrublands. It has become naturalized in scattered tropical regions around the rest of the globe. In Europe and North America it is a common houseplant, but it is also listed as invasive in several tropical island nations as well as southeastern Australia.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Hill forest, cliffs, limestone hills

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Economic Value

The latex of the rubber plant is hard rubber.

Garden Use

One of the best-known houseplants in the world, rubber tree can also be grown outdoors, provided the climate is suitable. It's a great specimen tree for tropical gardens, shade tropical gardens, and as an understory of large, tropical trees. In areas that are subtropical and sometimes get winter chills, you can pot rubber tree in the garden and move it indoors if it's too cold.

Symbolism

Important memories, friendliness, abundance, happiness, wealth

Name Story

Rubber plant: Its common name is actually related to its utility that it can produce a white latex, a compound separated from the tree sap. As the latex is used to make rubber, it is then called the rubber plant.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Rubber tree, including the following common varieties :

Rubber plant 'Schrijveriana'Burgundy Rubber Tree Decora Rubber Tree Rubber Plant Indian Rubber Tree 'Sylvie'Variegated rubber tree Variegated Rubber Tree Rubber plant 'Black Knight'Rubber plant 'Doescheri'Ruby rubber tree Rubber Tree 'Tricolor'Rubber plant 'Abidjan'

Toxicity

Rubber tree poses a toxicity risk to both cats and dogs when ingested. Symptoms in cats include physical discomfort, while in dogs, symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if poisoning is suspected. The sap or juice of the plant is the primary toxic component.

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Quickly Identify Rubber tree

Broad elliptic leaves, up to 17 inches (43 cm) long, with glossy deep green upper surface.

Sturdy stem, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in diameter, maturing to woody brown with faint ridges.

Fruit is a small oblong fig, green transitioning to yellow, attached without a stem.

Distinctive midrib on leaf undersurface, pale to reddish, adding to plant's unique appeal.

Minute unisexual flowers enclosed in fig, accessed through apical orifice, specialized pollination by fig wasps.

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Care Guide for Rubber tree

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from tropical rainforests, rubber tree prefers consistently moist soil and can tolerate occasional dryness. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing slight soil drying. It flourishes in humid indoor environments, with reduced watering needs during dormancy in cooler months.

Fertilize: Fertilize rubber tree with high nitrogen fertilizers every six weeks during spring and summer, reducing frequency in fall and stopping in winter. Use a balanced, water-soluble blend at a quarter-strength solution to support foliage health, while avoiding over-fertilization to maintain vigor.

Pruning: Rubber tree are characterized by large, glossy leaves and vigorous growth. Prune in early to late winter to discourage legginess by removing dead leaves and shaping the plant. Regular pruning enhances bushiness and air circulation, using clean, sharp tools to minimize stress and prevent disease.

Propagation: The preferred propagation methods for rubber tree include cutting and layering in spring. It has moderate difficulty, with success indicated by new root and shoot growth. High humidity and indirect sunlight are essential for optimal propagation results.

Repotting: Repot rubber tree every 2-3 years in spring using a tall, sturdy pot one size larger with good drainage. After repotting, place rubber tree in bright, indirect light and water consistently. Avoid fertilization for a month to prevent root burn during recovery.

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Images of Rubber tree

Distribution of Rubber tree

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Rubber tree

Care Guide for Rubber tree

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