Definition

Noun: 1. A large tropical Asian tree, often cultivated in a smaller form as a houseplant; a source of rubber: The term "india-rubber plant" refers specifically to a species of fig tree, Ficus elastica, native to parts of Asia. It is characterized by its broad, glossy, dark green leaves and its ability to produce a milky latex sap that was historically used to make rubber. When grown indoors, it is typically kept as a much smaller potted plant.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The india-rubber plant in the corner of the living room has grown new leaves.
  • Botanical gardens in warmer climates often have a full-sized india-rubber plant.
  • She learned that the sap from an india-rubber plant can be an irritant to skin.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often shortened informally to rubber plant in everyday horticultural contexts.
• In historical or botanical contexts, "india-rubber plant" distinguishes this specific source of latex from the Pará rubber tree (), which later became the primary commercial source.

Variants and Related Words

• Rubber plant (n): A common shortened name for the india-rubber plant.
• Ficus elastica (n): The scientific botanical name for the species.
• Rubber tree (n): A more general term that can refer to or, more commonly, to .

Synonyms

• Ficus elastica (Scientific name)
• Rubber fig

Notes on Meaning

• The "india-" prefix refers to the region of India and Southeast Asia, not the country of India exclusively, and dates from when this plant was a noted source of rubber ("india-rubber").
• Its primary modern meaning is as a popular, hardy houseplant, while its historical meaning as a source of rubber is less commonly referenced.

Noun

1. large tropical Asian tree frequently dwarfed as a houseplant; source of Assam rubber