Eucommia ulmoides

RHS Plant Profile
gutta-percha tree
gutta-percha tree visionspictures.com

Other common names

hardy rubber tree

Trees

A vigorous, deciduous tree to 15m or more tall forming a broad, rounded crown. Leathery, glossy leaves up to 15cm long are oval to elliptic with serrated margins and exude rubber if gently torn in half. Inconspicuous greenish-brown flowers in spring my be followed on female plants by flattened, elliptic, winged fruits to 3.5cm long

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Sand, Loam

Max Height

Higher than 12 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
Higher than 12 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Sand Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Eucommiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus
A genus of one species of small, deciduous tree native to China with green foliage containing latex, small inconspicuous green flowers and winged fruit. It is widely cultivated in China for the medicinal properties of its bark
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
China

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in any fertile, well-drained soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by semi-ripe cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free