rubber tree
• noun
A tall tropical rainforest tree (Hevea brasiliensis) native to the Amazon basin, commercially cultivated for its milky latex which is the primary source of natural rubber.
"Vast plantations of the rubber tree were established in Southeast Asia to meet the soaring global demand for automobile tires."
A popular ornamental plant (Ficus elastica) native to South and Southeast Asia, characterized by its large, glossy, leathery leaves and commonly kept as an indoor houseplant.
"She placed a potted rubber tree in the corner of her living room to add a touch of low-maintenance greenery."
Word Nuance & Usage
The term commonly refers to two distinctly different plants depending on the context: the commercially crucial Pará rubber tree cultivated for latex, and the popular decorative houseplant (Ficus elastica).
• Nearby Words
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.