Rubber tree - Hevea brasiliensis (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Rubber tree

Also known as: Pará rubber tree, Para rubber

Rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) is a tropical evergreen tree that will grow to 43 m tall. When cut, it secretes a milky latex liquid that is used to make rubber. Can live up to 100 years old. Native to the Amazon rainforests and commonly found growing in low-altitude moist forests and wetlands. It produces fruit that when ripe bursts open to disperse its seeds up to 30 m or further for reproduction.

Scientific classification

Species

Rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

43 m

Plant Height

Brown

Fruit Color

White, Yellow, Green

Flower Color

White

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Rubber tree

Distribution of Rubber tree

Distribution Map

Native to the Amazon Rainforest regions of South America, rubber tree has spread as an important cultivated species across tropical areas of Southeast Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, and parts of Central America and West Africa. Alongside its native range, rubber tree's cultivation extends to regions with similar climates, thriving especially in areas with wet tropical conditions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

River banks, Rainforests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

You might want to try growing a rubber tree as a botanical specimen in your tropical garden. As a garden tree, this species makes an attractive specimen plant or addition to a botanical garden landscape. You can also plant multiple trees in a row along a road or driveway to provide shade.

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Toxicity

The sap of rubber tree contains hevein and hevein amine, causing allergic reactions in some individuals, such as dermatitis, rashes, blisters, and severe cases of anaphylaxis. While the risk is negligible for most, regular exposure occurs due to latex being processed into widely used rubber.

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Care Guide for Rubber tree

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Rubber tree originates from the Amazon rainforest, thriving in high humidity and moist soil. It is drought-tolerant when established but should be watered biweekly to avoid over-saturation. Indoor plants benefit from occasional misting to enhance leaf health and growth.

Fertilize: Rubber tree benefits from high-nitrogen fertilizer, applied monthly in spring and summer, then quarterly in fall, with no fertilization in winter. Follow product guidelines to avoid root burn. Seasonal adjustments ensure growth without over-fertilization, and gloves should be worn due to sap irritation.

Pruning: Rubber tree benefits from proper pruning, including removal of dead branches, thinning for airflow, and size control. Ideal times are early to late winter during dormancy. This enhances health, increases latex yield, and reduces pests, necessitating sanitized tools and clean cuts for vigorous growth.

Propagation: Native to South American rainforests, rubber tree is cultivated for latex. Propagate using seeds in well-drained, moist soil under partial shade. Seedlings need regular watering without overwatering. Gradually expose established plants to sunlight, ensuring adequate spacing for air circulation.

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Images of Rubber tree

Distribution of Rubber tree

Culture

Toxicity

Care Guide for Rubber tree

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