Ficus elastica
Rubber Plant, Rubber Tree
Description
This evergreen tree will grow 25'-50' tall in tropical areas. However, in other areas especially with snowy winters, it's used as house plant and will grow to 10' tall. This broadleaf evergreen has dark green, leathery, glossy leaves 10" long and 5" wide. It does produce fruit but only in tropical areas. It does flower as a house plant. Its milky sap was once used to produce rubber. Considered invasive in Florida.
Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Height Range
6-12'
Flower Color
n/a
Flower Season
n/a
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Bark Color
Brown
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Half
Water
Medium
Growth Rate
Fast, Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Loam
Soil Condition
Average, Rich, Well-drained
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Tropical
Accenting Features
Specimen, Unusual Foliage
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Indoor, Patio
Special Uses
Container
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Apply a layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.
Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost or aged sawdust.