1: What common name is used for Ficus elastica (Rubber tree)?
A: Maple tree
B: Rubber plant
C: Oak tree
D: Pine tree
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is often referred to as the rubber plant.
2: In which family does Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) belong?
A: Rosaceae
B: Moraceae
C: Fabaceae
D: Asteraceae
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is part of the Moraceae family.
3: What part of the world is the Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) native to?
A: Australia
B: Eastern parts of South and Southeast Asia
C: Sub-Saharan Africa
D: South America
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is native to eastern parts of South and Southeast Asia.
4: How tall can Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) typically grow?
A: 10-20 meters
B: 30-40 meters
C: 50-60 meters
D: 70-80 meters
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) can grow up to 30-40 meters tall.
5: What type of roots does Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) develop to help support its branches?
A: Taproots
B: Fibrous roots
C: Aerial and buttressing roots
D: Rhizomes
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) develops aerial and buttressing roots to support itself.
6: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) leaves are largest on which type of plants?
A: Fruit-bearing trees
B: Young plants
C: Old shrubs
D: Flowering bushes
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The leaves of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) are largest on young plants.
7: What is unique about the flowers of the Ficus elastica (Rubber tree)?
A: They are highly fragrant
B: They require a specific species of fig wasp for pollination
C: They are brightly colored
D: They bloom only at night
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The flowers of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) require a specific species of fig wasp for pollination.
8: Where in the United States has Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) become naturalized?
A: California
B: Florida
C: Texas
D: Hawaii
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) has become naturalized in the state of Florida.
9: What makes the fruit of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) barely edible?
A: Its size
B: Its color
C: The presence of toxins
D: Its taste
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: The fruit of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is a small yellow-green oval fig that is barely edible due to its size.
10: In which regions of the world can Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) frequently be found?
A: Northern Europe
B: Tropical regions, including Hawaii and the West Indies
C: Arctic regions
D: Desert areas
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) has been introduced in tropical regions, including Hawaii and the West Indies.
11: How is Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) typically propagated in cultivation?
A: By seeds
B: By cuttings or layering
C: By grafting
D: By spores
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is most commonly propagated by cuttings or layering.
12: Which climate is most suitable for growing Ficus elastica (Rubber tree)?
A: Frost-heavy climates
B: Cold, dry climates
C: Humid, wet tropical conditions
D: Arid, desert conditions
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) thrives in humid, wet tropical conditions.
13: What is the purpose of the milky white latex found in Ficus elastica (Rubber tree)?
A: To facilitate photosynthesis
B: To store nutrients
C: It was formerly used to make rubber
D: To attract pollinators
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: The milky white latex from Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) was formerly used to make rubber.
14: Why is Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) not used in the commercial production of rubber?
A: The latex is not suitable for industrial use
B: It doesn’t produce enough latex
C: It grows too slowly
D: It lacks necessary genetic traits
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: The latex of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is not suitable for the commercial production of rubber.
15: What special type of structure can be formed using the aerial roots of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) in parts of India?
A: Living bridges
B: Tunnels
C: Caves
D: Huts
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: In parts of India, aerial roots of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) are trained to form living bridges.
16: Which hybrid derived from Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is known for its broader, stiffer, and more upright leaves?
A: Ficus altissima
B: Robusta
C: Ficus benjamina
D: Ficus lyrata
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: ‘Robusta’ is a hybrid derived from Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) with broader, stiffer, and more upright leaves.
17: How does Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) generally prefer sunlight?
A: Shady areas
B: Low light conditions
C: Bright sunlight
D: Complete darkness
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) prefers bright sunlight.
18: What type of fig is produced by Ficus elastica (Rubber tree)?
A: Large and sweet
B: Small yellow-green
C: Red and juicy
D: High in water content
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) produces small yellow-green figs.
19: What purpose does the sheath at the apical meristem of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) serve?
A: Storing water
B: Protecting new leaves
C: Producing flowers
D: Transporting nutrients
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The sheath at the apical meristem of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) protects new developing leaves.
20: How does Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) typically respond to drought conditions?
A: It thrives
B: It perishes quickly
C: It has a high tolerance for drought
D: It sheds all its leaves
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) has a high tolerance for drought.
21: What effect does pruning have on the growth form of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree)?
A: It exaggerates leaf coloration
B: It promotes flowering
C: It can alter the tree’s natural shape
D: It isn’t affected by pruning
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Pruning can alter the natural growth form of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) by making it more compact or bushy.
22: In which European region can Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) be found in mild climates?
A: Scandinavia
B: Mediterranean Basin
C: British Isles
D: Balkans
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) can thrive in mild locations throughout the Mediterranean Basin.
23: What type of insects are necessary for Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) pollination?
A: Bees
B: Butterflies
C: Fig wasps
D: Ants
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) requires specific fig wasps for pollination.
24: How large can the trunk of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) grow in diameter?
A: Up to 1 meter
B: Up to 2 meters
C: Up to 3 meters
D: Up to 4 meters
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The trunk of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) can grow up to 2 meters in diameter.
25: Which substance in the Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) can act as an irritant and is toxic if ingested?
A: Sap
B: Latex
C: Fruit
D: Flowers
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The latex from Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is an irritant and can be toxic if ingested.
26: What benefit do the aerial roots of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) offer in supporting the tree?
A: Absorbing more nutrients
B: Providing additional stability
C: Aiding in propagation
D: Enhancing photosynthesis
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The aerial roots of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) help to support the heavy branches of the tree.
27: How long can the leaves of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) grow on young plants?
A: Up to 10 cm
B: Up to 20 cm
C: Up to 35 cm
D: Up to 45 cm
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The leaves of young Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) plants can grow up to 45 cm long.
28: What is a common use for Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) in indoor settings?
A: Ornamental houseplant
B: Food source
C: Medicinal plant
D: Timber plant
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is commonly grown as an ornamental houseplant.
29: In which continent outside of Asia has Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) been widely introduced?
A: Africa
B: Antarctica
C: Europe
D: South America
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) has been widely introduced in Africa, including Ghana.
30: Why are the flowers of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) not colorful or fragrant?
A: To attract insects other than fig wasps
B: Due to its relationship with specific fig wasps
C: To avoid being detected by predators
D: To conserve energy in growing leaves
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The flowers of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) are not colorful or fragrant because they rely on specific fig wasps for pollination.
31: What part of the Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) contains seeds?
A: Roots
B: Leaves
C: Fruit
D: Flowers
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: The small yellow-green fruit of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) contains seeds.
32: Which climates can Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) tolerate apart from tropical climates?
A: Desert climates
B: Coastal climates
C: Frost-free and mildly frosty climates
D: Alpine climates
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) thrives in frost-free climates and can tolerate light frosts.
33: Which hybrid of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is known for its variegated leaves?
A: Ficus robusta
B: Ficus lyrata
C: Macrophthalma elastica
D: Various ornamental hybrids
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: Various ornamental hybrids of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) exhibit variegated leaves.
34: In which Indian state are living bridges made from Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) roots found?
A: Kerala
B: Tamil Nadu
C: Meghalaya
D: Rajasthan
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Living bridges woven from the roots of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) are found in Meghalaya, India.
35: Where in the plant does the actual production of rubber latex occur?
A: Leaf veins
B: Roots
C: Special latex cells, not the sap
D: Stems
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Latex production occurs in specialized cells, distinct from the sap of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree).
36: Which of these areas is not a natural habitat of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree)?
A: Nepal
B: Bhutan
C: Sahara Desert
D: Myanmar
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: The Sahara Desert is not part of the natural habitat of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree).
37: Up to what approximate height is it rare for Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) to grow?
A: 100 meters
B: 60 meters
C: 50 meters
D: 80 meters
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: It’s rare for Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) to grow as tall as 60 meters.
38: What makes the fruit of the Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) a “fake fruit”?
A: It contains non-viable seeds
B: It is not edible
C: It resembles another fruit
D: Only contains fertile seeds where the pollinating insect is present
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The fruit is considered “fake” because it contains fertile seeds only in areas with the pollinating insect.
39: Why would someone use Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) as an indoor plant?
A: It’s a low-light plant
B: It requires frequent watering
C: Its tolerance to varying humidity
D: It doesn’t grow tall
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is used as an indoor plant because it tolerates varying humidity well.
40: In what scenario would aerial roots be found on small Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) plants?
A: When they are exposed to high wind
B: Naturally, even on plants as small as 1ft tall
C: Only on mature plants
D: Only when deprived of water
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Aerial roots can be found on small Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) plants as small as 1ft tall.
41: What alternative use does the latex from Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) have apart from manufacturing rubber?
A: Pharmaceutical uses
B: Paint production
C: Textile industry
D: None; its use in rubber making was uneconomical
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The latex was tested for rubber making but was not economically or technically viable.
42: How does Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) shed its old leaves?
A: They turn colorful and fall off
B: They wither and drop gradually
C: The sheath at the apical meristem drops as new leaves unfurl
D: They are eaten by insects
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Old leaves are shed as the sheath at the apical meristem drops when new leaves unfurl.
43: Where have living bridges made from Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) roots gained attention?
A: Western Africa
B: Central America
C: Meghalaya, India
D: Eastern Europe
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: They’ve gained attention for the unique techniques used in Meghalaya, India.
44: What is the typical width of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) leaves on older trees?
A: 10 cm
B: 15 cm
C: 20 cm
D: 5 cm
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The width typically reduces to 5 cm on older trees.
45: What specific role does the latex of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) play for the plant?
A: Storing nutrients
B: Acting as a defense mechanism
C: Aiding pollination
D: Water storage
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The latex acts as a defense mechanism against herbivores.
46: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is commonly known by what other name related to its latex-producing feature?
A: Banyan tree
B: Indian rubber tree
C: Ashoka tree
D: Neem tree
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: It’s also known as the Indian rubber tree due to its latex.
47: What condition does Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) prefer in cultivation to thrive?
A: Full shade
B: Ample sunlight and high humidity
C: Dry and cold weather
D: Sandy soil and low water
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) prefers bright sunlight and high humidity in cultivation.
48: Why are fig wasps crucial for the reproductive cycle of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree)?
A: They aid in nutrient absorption
B: They help disperse seeds
C: They are unique pollinators for its flowers
D: They control plant diseases
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Fig wasps are essential for pollinating the flowers of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree).
49: What is another term for the milky latex found in Ficus elastica (Rubber tree)?
A: Resin
B: Sap
C: Gum
D: Latex
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The milky substance in Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is referred to as latex.
50: In addition to Hawaii, in which region has Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) not spread naturally due to absence of fig wasps?
A: West Indies
B: Mediterranean
C: North America
D: South Asia
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: In Hawaii, the absence of fig wasps prevents Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) from spreading naturally.
51: What color are the fruits produced by Ficus elastica (Rubber tree)?
A: Red
B: Blue
C: Yellow-green
D: White
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: The fruits of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) are small and yellow-green.
52: What other name could Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) be mistakenly referred to as due to its latex production?
A: Pará rubber tree
B: Sugar maple
C: Coconut tree
D: Banana plant
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: It could be mistakenly referred to as the Pará rubber tree, which is the primary source of commercial rubber.
53: Typically, what type of climates outside of the tropics can support the growth of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree)?
A: Extremely hot climates
B: Mild, Mediterranean climates
C: Arctic climates
D: Temperate rainforests
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) can thrive in mild, Mediterranean climates outside of the tropics.
54: In which U.S. tropical state has Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) become naturalized?
A: Connecticut
B: Florida
C: Montana
D: Alaska
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) is naturalized in Florida.
55: What common garden product used to train aerial roots in india is derived from Ficus elastica (Rubber tree)?
A: Garden trellis
B: Living bridges
C: Topiary frames
D: Hanging baskets
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: In some regions, aerial roots are trained to form living bridges.
56: In which kind of soil does Ficus elastica (
(Rubber tree) prefer to grow when cultivated?
A: Sandy and dry soil
B: Rich, well-draining soil
C: Clayey soil
D: Rocky soil
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) prefers rich, well-draining soil when cultivated.
57: What is the approximate length of the broad, shiny leaves of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) in mature plants?
A: 5 cm
B: 10-15 cm
C: 20-25 cm
D: 30-35 cm
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The leaves of mature Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) plants are typically around 10-15 cm long.
58: In which year was the scientific name Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) first validly published?
A: 1819
B: 1829
C: 1919
D: 1719
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: The scientific name Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) was first validly published in 1819.
59: Which other fig variety is often compared to the leaves of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree)?
A: Ficus benjamina
B: Ficus lyrata
C: Ficus lutea
D: Ficus religiosa
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: The leaves of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) are often compared to those of Ficus lutea.
60: What generally happens to Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) leaves as they mature?
A: They increase in size
B: They change color
C: They develop a waxy coating
D: They become smaller
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The leaves of Ficus elastica (Rubber tree) become smaller as the plant matures.