Rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis)
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Hevea brasiliensis, known as the rubber tree, is an iconic Amazonian species — the source of natural latex without which modern rubber production would not exist. Although it is not considered globally endangered, it is rapidly declining in many parts of the Amazon and Southeast Asia. The reason is not logging but, paradoxically, its own success: it has been replaced by vast monoculture plantations that have displaced natural forest populations.
Status
Not globally threatened, but locally threatened due to the disappearance of natural stands.
Why is it disappearing?
Replacement by rubber plantations
Original, genetically diverse populations are being cleared and converted into low-biodiversity monocultures.
Loss of primary rainforest
Deforestation in the Amazon and Southeast Asia greatly reduces the species’ natural habitat.
Importance for the ecosystem
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one of the most important trees of the tropical zone
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its latex protects the tree but also serves as food for specialized insects
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contributes to rainforest structure and provides shelter for birds and mammals
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in its natural form, it preserves genetic diversity that plantations cannot replace
Appearance
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Height: 20–35 m
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Trunk: straight, light grey, releases latex when injured
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Crown: irregular, light
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Leaves: trifoliate, leathery, glossy
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Fruits: capsules containing seeds that open explosively
Where and how to plant
Ideal for planting in the humid tropical zone.
✔ Ideal regions
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Brazil, Peru, Ecuador
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Colombia, Bolivia
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lowland tropical rainforests
✔ How to plant
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in moist, fertile, deep soil
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young trees initially require partial shade
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protect from excessive sun and drying during the first two years
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suitable for agroforestry and rainforest restoration projects, not for monocultures
When to plant
During the rainy season (December–March) for maximum establishment success.
Why plant it
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helps maintain genetically diverse populations outside plantations
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supports tropical forest biodiversity
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improves water retention and contributes to forest structure
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has essential cultural and economic value for local communities
