Rubber Plant
Also known as
Rubber Tree, Rubber Fig
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Rubber Plant
Ficus elastica, commonly known as the Rubber Plant, is a popular houseplant appreciated for its glossy, leathery leaves that range in color from deep burgundy to bright green. Native to the rainforests of South Asia, these plants are robust and can grow quite large under the right conditions, reaching up to 10-12 feet indoors. Its leaves are broad, thick, and have a striking, waxy appearance which makes it a favorite for adding a lush, tropical feel to indoor spaces. Besides its decorative appeal, it is also known for its air-purifying qualities, removing various toxins from the atmosphere.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Rubber Plant
Water
Water your Rubber Plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in the winter months when plant growth naturally slows. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Light
Place your Rubber Plant in an area with bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sun can burn the leaves, while too little light can cause the plant to become leggy.
Nutrients
Feed your Rubber Plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every month during the growing season (spring through early autumn). Reduce feeding to every other month in the winter, and always ensure the soil is moist before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn.
Temperature
Rubber Plants prefer temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (16-24°C). Avoid exposure to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10°C) as cold temperatures can damage the leaves.
