Rubber Plant
ficus elastica
Also known as: ["India Rubber Tree","Rubber Fig"]
Overview
A large, evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its glossy, leathery leaves and milky sap.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Ficus |
| Botanical Name: | Ficus elastica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light away from direct sunlight
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 6–8 hours/day; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure proper drainage.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure bottom drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil every 2 years.
Temperature
Ideal 60–80°F (15–27°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to drafts and extreme fluctuations.
Avoid placing near vents; maintain stable temps; protect from sudden drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with leaf nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root growth.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove leggy stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged leaves; shape for aesthetics; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut at correct angle; remove debris; monitor for regrowth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove old soil; trim roots if needed; use fresh well-draining mix; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes growth and prevents root-bound issues.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; avoid wetting leaves to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or wilting.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate from drafts; avoid sudden temperature changes.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to the irritants in Ficus elastica, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset if ingested. The sap can also cause skin and oral irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Ficus elastica by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation due to the presence of ficin and other irritants. The latex sap can cause oral and gastrointestinal discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicFicus elastica contains ficin, a proteolytic enzyme, and other irritants that can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation upon contact. The sap is particularly irritating due to its latex content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ficus elastica toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water my Rubber Plant?
A: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, reducing frequency in winter.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Rubber Plant turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or insufficient light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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