Rubber Tree 'Ruby'
Botanical Name: Ficus Elastica
Common Name: Rubber Tree
Ficus elastica is known as "Rubber Tree" is native to the rainforest region of South America as well as the tropical rainforests of Sumatra, the Himalayas, India, Nepal, and Java, a large and densely populated Indonesian island. They are known to grow to just over 100 feet tall in the wild. That's 30 meters – the same length as three double-decker buses!
Ficus elastica's milky sap is used for the production of latex and rubber. Today, the type of rubber tree used for commercial production is called, "Hevea Brasiliense". The combination of mixing chemicals and a heating process called vulcanization, makes the rubber firm and durable!
Fun Facts!
- In 1961, Frank Sinatra's song "High Hopes" (a song about rubber trees) reached the Billboard top 100.
- Ancient Aztecs made waterproof clothing and shoes from this common plant!
- Did you know Rubber trees can reproduce by growing fruit that bursts its seeds when ripe? The seeds can then scatter up to 100 feet from the tree!
Ficus Elastica at a Glance:
- Sensitive to drafts and should avoid placement near windows, vents, and doors
- Lovers of humidity but does not require
- Medium to bright (indirect light)
- Water when top 1 inch of soil is dry
Armed with a little knowledge, Ficus Elastica are a joy to have!
Struggling with your Ficus Elastica?
Feel free to reach out to us anytime! We're happy to troubleshoot what your plant needs!
- Email: urban-sprouts@comcast.net
- Instagram: @urbansproutsstore
This listing is for the plant only. Planters and accessories not included.