Hevea brasiliensis

The natural rubber tree, native to the tropical forests of South America and one of the most economically significant trees in the world. Leaves are trifoliate with elliptic to lanceolate leaflets, fine pinnate venation, and a distinctive flush of bronze-red new growth that matures to deep green.

• Light: Full sun to bright indirect light; thrives with at least 6 hours of direct or unfiltered light daily for vigorous growth.
• Temperature: 64–86°F (18–30°C); performs best as an intermediate to warm grower with consistently high temperatures and no frost exposure.
• Humidity: 60–80%; tolerates moderate humidity but benefits from higher levels during establishment.
• Watering: Water thoroughly when the top layer of substrate dries; well-established trees are moderately drought-tolerant but prefer consistent moisture during active growth.
• Growth Habit: Fast-growing, upright deciduous tree reaching 20–30 m in natural conditions; in cultivation it is managed as a large container specimen or landscape tree in frost-free tropical and subtropical climates.

Additional Notes

The primary commercial source of natural latex, prized in cultivation for its rapid growth and striking bronze new foliage. Plant in a well-draining, fertile substrate with good aeration. Ships bare root, well-established from Ecuagenera, Ecuador.