Rubber Plant. India Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica)

Family: Moraceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Ficus elastica is an evergreen Tree growing to 50 m (164ft) by 50 m (164ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Wasps. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves are eaten as vegetable. The very young leaf tips, harvested before the leaves have expanded, are eaten as a salad. — Young leaves are eaten as vegetable.; The very young leaf tips, harvested before the leaves have expanded, are eaten as a salad.

Habitat & North American Range

Hill forest, particularly on cliffs and limestone hills. (Zone 9)