Hardy Rubbertree
Arbor Walk #120, TreeKeeper ID #6643
This tree gets its name from the gummy sap contained in the tree’s leaves, branches, and bark, which does not pour out like a milkweed but rather pulls apart with sticky strings like half-dried glue. Native to China, this tree has been traditionally used to treat high blood pressure, liver, and kidney issues.
The Hardy Rubbertree is the only extant (living) species within both its genus and its family. Even within its order, Garryales, there are only three genera. Although this species may resemble an elm (hence the epithet ulmoides), the Hardy Rubbertree is much more closely phylogenetically related to plants like mint, sage, tomatoes, and potatoes!
| Common Name(s) | Hardy Rubbertree |
|---|---|
| Latin Name | Eucommia ulmoides |
| Indigenous Name(s) | |
| Cultivar/Variety | |
| Commercial Name |
Global Distribution
Coming soon
GPS Coordinates
N/A
Percent Concrete
N/A
Distance to Buildings
| Year | Close Building #1 | Close Building #2 | Close Building #3 |
|---|---|---|---|
Distance to Other Species
| Year | Close Species #1 | Close Species # 2 | Close Species # 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
Standard Measurements
| Year | Height (m) | DBH (cm) | Crown Diameter N-S (m) | Crown Diameter E-W (m) | Average Crown Diameter (m) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 5.2 | 6 | 2.15 | 1.95 | 2.05 |
Nests and Pests
| Year | Description |
|---|---|
| 2023 | N/A |
Leaf Identification
The leaves of the Hardy Rubbertree are 3″ to 6″ long, 1″ to 3″ wide, and a vibrant green. The leaf shape is elliptical or ovate, and they typically have an acuminate (tapering) tip. The margin is serrated, and the venation is pinnate. When the leaves are torn, fine, silk-like strands hold the pieces together.
Twig and Bud Identification
The twigs of the Hardy Rubbertree are slightly zigzag with lenticels (pores). The buds are pointed and reddish-brown. They have a false terminal bud as well.
Bark Identification
The Hardy Rubbertree’s bark has shallow, criss-crossed ridges and furrows.
Fruit Identification
The fruit of the Hardy Rubbertree is a wafer-like samara with a notch at the apex. It is oval-shaped, elongated, and 1″ to 3″ long. It starts out green but browns as it matures.
Flower Identification
The Hardy Rubbertree is dioecious. The male flowers are greenish- brown and 1/2″ long. They form in crowded groups. The female flowers are inconspicuous. The flowers bloom in mid-spring.
