RRIV 1 Rubber Variety – Characteristics, Yield, and Planting Recommendations

1. Introduction

RRIV 1 is the first domestically bred rubber clone developed by the Vietnam Rubber Research Institute (RRIV) in 1982.
Despite being an early-generation variety, RRIV 1 continues to be officially recommended for large-scale cultivation in Southeast Vietnam and the Northwest highlands under the 2016–2020 clone structure, thanks to its stable yield and proven adaptability.

Although newer clones such as RRIV 106 and RRIV 209 have gained more attention, RRIV 1 remains highly competitive in latex output and quality, particularly in favorable lowland areas.


2. Origin and Breeding Background

  • Developed by: Vietnam Rubber Research Institute (RRIV)

  • Breeding year: 1982

  • Included in national clone structures:

    • 2011–2015: Table I – Southeast & Northwest regions

    • 2016–2020: Continued recommendation for commercial planting

  • Production focus: Latex-oriented, stable-yield clone suitable for warm, humid climates.


3. Growth Characteristics

  • Strong growth during the immature stage in favorable environments.

  • Tree form: Straight trunk, small and low canopy, with many side branches — early pruning is required for balanced structure.

  • Propagation rate: Relatively low, but RRIV 1 plantations are uniform with a high tapping rate.

  • Moderate girth increment during the exploitation period.

  • Tolerance: Fair drought tolerance and moderate cold resistance.


4. Latex Yield and Quality

  • Early and stable production:

    • 1.5 tons/ha in the first tapping year

    • ~2.0 tons/ha from the second year onward (in favorable Southeast regions)

  • Latex characteristics: White, clean latex meeting Grade 1 standard, suitable for high-quality rubber products.

  • Good response to stimulation: Performs well under regulated Ethephon use following tapping protocols.


5. Disease Resistance and Environmental Adaptability

  • Susceptible: Black tip blight (Botryodiplodia), especially in nurseries.

  • Mild infection: Powdery mildew and Corynespora leaf fall.

  • Drought tolerance: Fair.

  • Cold tolerance: Moderate; best grown in areas with stable temperature and humidity.


6. Recommended Planting Areas

RRIV 1 is recommended for:

  • Southeast Vietnam: Bình Dương, Bình Phước, Đồng Nai, Tây Ninh.

  • Northwest Vietnam: Sơn La, Điện Biên, Lai Châu (below 600m altitude).

Avoid planting in high-altitude (>600m) or drought-prone areas.


7. Where to Buy Certified RRIV 1 Seedlings

Vietnam Rubber Research Institute (RRIV)
National Highway 13, Lai Hung Commune, Bau Bang District, Binh Duong Province
+84 982 894 506 (Dr. Minh)
Also contact: GCS Rubber – Contact


8. Conclusion

RRIV 1 remains one of Vietnam’s most stable and proven domestic rubber varieties, recognized for its consistent latex yield, easy tapping characteristics, and adaptability.
It performs best in fertile lowland regions with proper care and disease management.
However, it is not recommended for poor or high-altitude soils, where growth and productivity may decline.