Rubber Tree, Ficus Elastica
FAMILY:
Moraceae
ORIGIN:
Southeast Asia
DESCRIPTION:
A large bush in the banyan group of figs; the trunk will develop aerial and buttressing roots to help anchor the plant; broad shiny oval leaves 6 – 14″ long
CULTIVATION:
Moderate watering; tolerates drought conditions but prefers moist soil; fertilize monthly; part to full sun
PROPAGATION:
Stem cuttings or air layering
COMMENTS:
It contains a milky white sap that has been used in the manufacturing of rubber but should not be confused with the Para Rubber Tree which is used in the making of commercial rubber
