Water
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering frequency during the cooler, dormant months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid standing water.
Also known as Castilla · Castilla Rubber · Mexican Rubber
Panama Rubbertree (Castilla elastica) is a fast-growing tropical tree native to Central America, known for its latex and ornamental appeal.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Well-draining soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering frequency during the cooler, dormant months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid standing water.
Prune in spring or early summer to maintain shape, control size, or remove any dead or damaged branches. Cut just above a leaf node to encourage new growth. Latex sap will be released, so wear gloves.
Pruning stimulates bushier growth.
Propagate Panama Rubber Trees from stem cuttings, typically 10-15 cm long, taken in spring or summer. Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Plant in moist potting mix and keep in a warm, humid environment. Rooting can take several weeks.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, preferably in spring. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Handle the plant carefully, as it can be sensitive to root disturbance.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Panama Rubbertree (Castilla elastica)
Where Panama Rubbertree (Castilla elastica) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Castilla |
| Species | Castilla elastica |
Similar in genus Castilla
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
