Eucommia ulmoides
gutta-percha tree
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
Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
4–8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Brown | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical 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
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.