Rubber tree, (Hevea brasiliensis), South American tropical tree of the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae). Cultivated on plantations in the tropics and subtropics, especially in Southeast Asia and western Africa, it replaced the rubber plant in the early 20th century as the chief source of natural rubber. It has soft wood; high, branching limbs; and a large area of bark. The milky liquid (latex) that oozes from any wound to the tree bark contains about 30 percent rubber, which can be coagulated and processed into solid products, such as tires. Latex can also be concentrated for producing dipped goods, such as surgical gloves.


Did You Know ?

Historically, cattle ranchers and rubber tappers have disagreed over the rights to clear forest land. Cutting down the forest is not only detrimental to the species that depend on that land, but also damaging to the people that earn a living by sustainably harvesting what the forest provides. Many indigenous people depend on these sources of income to provide for their families and communities.

Chico Mendes, a Brazilian rubber tapper, became famous when he organized the National Council of Rubber Tappers in Brazil to help protest against the clear cutting of land for cattle grazing. Thanks to his efforts, the union gained the support of the Brazilian government and was able to set aside crucial “extractive reserves” within Brazil. These reserves allow for the sustainable harvest of goods, such as rubber or nuts, and protect against the clear cutting of trees. In 1988, Chico Mendes was murdered for his work to create extractive reserves and protect the rainforest. His efforts have been carried on by his coworkers and supporters across the world.