Origin: Brazil

The spread of the Rubber Tree to Singapore happened in the 1800s. The popularity of this tree is due to its sap-like extract (known as latex), which is the primary source of natural rubber. Although the tree is no longer cultivated in Singapore, it has already established itself in forested areas that were previously used for such plantation. Also, it continues to be the dominant tree species at some parks that were converted from previous plantation. The seeds are highly viable which many account for the trees continue stronghold in these areas. One of the trees in the Botanic Gardens was even honoured with the Heritage Trees title. This particular tree was planted in 1923 according to the brochure issued by NPark. The tree continues to be a key cash crop in some countries in Southeast Asia.