Description

General aspect and origins - 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.
Leaves - 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.
Flowers - The flowers bloom inside the figs.
Fruits - 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.

Culture

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.
Soil - The rubber tree needs a well-drained and fertile ground.

Propagation

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.