Rubber plant
Ficus elastica
Evergreen tropical tree commonly grown as a houseplant with glossy, leathery oval leaves; adaptable and low-maintenance, prefers bright indirect light and moderate watering.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: toxic
All parts contain irritating latex sap; ingestion causes oral irritation and vomiting in pets and contact can irritate skin and eyes.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place the rubber plant in bright, indirect light near an east or west window. Avoid hot midday sun which can scorch leaves. Rotate the pot monthly so all sides receive even light and prevent leaning toward the light source.
Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry; allow excess to drain. In spring and summer this is typically weekly to biweekly, less in winter. Avoid waterlogged soil and standing water to prevent root rot.
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity (40-60%). Increase humidity with pebble trays, grouping plants, or a humidifier in dry homes. Regular misting helps but is short-lived in low-humidity rooms.
Temperature
Keep between 15–30°C (59–86°F). Avoid cold drafts below 12–15°C and sudden drops; consistent indoor temperatures are best for growth and leaf retention.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Yellowing lower leaves
Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage causing root stress
Solution: Reduce watering frequency, lift plant to check root health, repot in fresh well-draining soil if roots are mushy and remove rotten roots.
Brown crispy leaf edges
Cause: Underwatering, low humidity, or salt buildup
Solution: Increase humidity, water more evenly so soil is slightly moist, flush pot occasionally to remove salts from fertilizer.
Sudden leaf drop
Cause: Temperature shock, drafts, or sudden light changes
Solution: Move away from drafty windows or AC vents, avoid drastic location changes, acclimate gradually to brighter light.
Sticky leaves or visible insects
Cause: Scale, mealybugs, or aphids producing honeydew
Solution: Wipe leaves with soapy water, treat infestations with insecticidal soap or alcohol on a cotton swab, isolate infected plants.
✂️How to Propagate Rubber plant
Stem cuttings: choose a healthy 10–15 cm stem with a few leaves, cut below a node, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, and place in a moist, well-draining mix or water until roots form. Keep warm and humid with indirect light. Air-layering: wound a 2–3 cm ring, apply rooting hormone, wrap with moist sphagnum moss and plastic until roots appear, then cut and pot. Seeds are slower and less common for houseplants.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Moraceae
Native to: Native to eastern India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar and parts of Southeast Asia including Malaysia and Indonesia.
Natural Habitat: Grows as an understory tree in tropical and subtropical forests, tolerating bright filtered light, high humidity, and well-drained soils on slopes and riverbanks.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Reduce watering and place away from cold windows or drafts. Provide bright, indirect light and maintain humidity; avoid fertilizing until growth resumes.
Spring
Increase watering and start light fertilization. Repot if rootbound and prune to shape; resume regular feeding as new growth appears.
Summer
Keep soil evenly moist, provide bright indirect light and good air circulation. Monitor for pests and increase humidity during hot, dry spells.
Fall
Gradually reduce water and fertilization as growth slows. Check for pests and tidy up dead leaves before winter dormancy.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my rubber plant?
Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry, usually every 1–3 weeks depending on season and pot size.
Can a rubber plant tolerate low light?
It tolerates lower light but prefers bright, indirect light; growth will slow and leggy stems may form in low light.
How do I propagate a rubber plant?
Best methods are stem cuttings or air-layering: cut below a node, keep moist and warm, roots form in weeks to months.
Why are my rubber plant leaves sticky?
Sticky leaves usually mean pests like scale or mealybugs; inspect, clean leaves, and treat with insecticidal soap.
Is the rubber plant safe for pets?
No. Ficus elastica is toxic to cats and dogs; its sap can irritate and ingestion may cause vomiting.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025