Rubber Plant
Ficus elastica
About this plant
The Rubber Plant is a popular indoor tree known for its large, shiny, dark green leaves that sometimes have a reddish tint when young. It can grow quite tall indoors and adds a tropical feel to rooms. Originally from South and Southeast Asia, it is often grown as a houseplant around the world. The plant produces a milky sap when cut, which was once used to make rubber, hence its common name.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Ficus
- Family
- Moraceae
- Higher classification
- Rosales
- Plant type
- Houseplant
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- South Asia, Southeast Asia
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated worldwide as a houseplant and in subtropical gardens.
Care
- Light preference
- Bright indirect
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, Southeast-facing, South-facing, Southwest-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 15 °C
- Maximum
- 29 °C
- Optimal
- 18-24 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-12
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining potting soil mix
Watering. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; reduce watering in winter.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing spring and summer months. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
The Rubber Plant is fairly tough and easy to care for, thriving in bright indirect light and moderate watering. It can suffer from leaf drop or yellowing if overwatered or kept in low light. Regular dusting of leaves helps it breathe better and keeps it looking healthy.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- No
Large, glossy leaves that are oval-shaped with a thick texture, sometimes with a reddish new leaf emerging.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
The sap can cause mild skin irritation. If ingested by children or pets, it may cause mild stomach upset. Keep out of reach of pets and small children.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot and yellow leaves. Low light may lead to slow growth and leaf drop. Pests like spider mites and mealybugs can occasionally affect it.
Uses
Primarily grown as an attractive indoor plant for decoration and air purification. It adds a tropical look to indoor spaces.
Notes
Prune to control size and shape as needed. Repot every 2-3 years to refresh soil. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.