Coolexotics, exotic and tropical-looking plants for any climate
      
 
Go to the plants index
Moraceae
Zone USDA 9b
This plant fact sheet was first proposed by lrey
Last modification:  30/11/2005 15:24
[ History of this plant fact sheet ]
Ficus elastica
rubber tree, rubber plant
 
Ficus elastica, also known as the rubber tree or the rubber plant, is an evergreen tree which is native to tropical zones of Asia, especially to India and Malaysia. This tree can reach up to 100 ft, and even 150 ft, (30 - 50 m) and forms aerial roots.
The rubber tree is widely used as a house plant, as it can grow in moderately luminous environments. Indoors, the rubber plant may reach more than 10 ft (3 m) high. Outside, this Ficus may be grown in very mild to warm areas. (USDA zones 10 and warmer). However, a well-established tree may withstand a few degrees of frost, about 30°F to 26°F (-1°C to -3°C), depending on the weather conditions and the age of the tree. The rubber tree white sticky sap is moderately toxic.
 
The rubber tree has evergreen glossy leaves that can be 12 in (30 cm) long. The young leaves are pinkish, then turn deep green with age.
The flowers bloom inside the figs.
The rubber tree bears figs, as does the fig tree (Ficus carica) which is a close relative. However, the rubber tree bears inedible figs. They are green, and half an inch wide.
 
Ficus elastica requiert les expositions suivantes : mi-ombre,lumière,soleil
The rubber tree needs a well-drained and fertile ground.
 

Photos of rubber tree

Ficus elastica
 
Category - tree
Dimensions
  • Height 30.00 m
  • Width 15.00 m
  • Minimum temperatures
  • The plant is likely to die as soon as temperature is below -3.0 °C
  • Leaves and other aerial parts are damaged as soon as temperatures drops to -1.0 °C
  • Exposure - partial shade, light, full sun
    Leaves - evergreen
    Flowers -
    Propagation - cutting, layering, seeds
  • The rubber tree can be propagated by seeds, cuttings or air layering. When propagating a cultivar, cuttings or air layering will be the best choice.
  • Toxicity
  • Warning, this plant contains toxic parts.
  • Contains irritating, urticating or spiky parts.
  •  

    User comments
    There is not comment yet. You can add one by clicking on the button labelled "Add a comment".

    All rights reserved © 2005-2010 - Legal mentions - Contact
    1293128 unique visits since january 2005, 191 unique visits today and 11 visitors being connected.
    Other Websites from the Entropiques Network : Plantes exotiques | Tous les fruits | Les îles