Rubber Plant

Ficus elastica

AKA: Rubber Tree, Indian Rubber Plant

easy_to_medium medium water medium, bright_indirect Pet caution

Rubber plants are bold, architectural houseplants with large glossy leaves. They are relatively easy to care for and can grow into impressive indoor trees.

Rubber plant with large glossy dark green leaves indoors

Care snapshot

☀️ Light
Medium, Bright Indirect
💧 Water
Medium
💨 Humidity
Medium
📈 Growth
Moderate

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Rubber Plant Care at a Glance

Rubber plants are striking indoor trees prized for their thick, glossy leaves and upright growth habit.

Best For

  • Bright rooms
  • Statement decor
  • Offices
  • Plant owners wanting a tree-like plant

Not Great For

  • Low light rooms
  • Homes with curious pets
  • Cold environments

Light Requirements

Bright indirect light produces the healthiest growth and largest leaves. Variegated varieties need brighter light to maintain color.

How to Water a Rubber Plant

Allow the top layer of soil to dry before watering again. Consistent but moderate watering prevents leaf drop and root rot.

Watering Tips

  • Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust.
  • Reduce watering in winter.
  • Never let the pot sit in standing water.

Humidity & Care

Rubber plants appreciate moderate humidity but adapt well to average indoor conditions. Occasional misting helps leaf health.

Pruning & Shaping

Prune to control height and encourage branching. Always wear gloves when pruning due to the milky sap.

How to Propagate Rubber Plant (Stem Cuttings)

  1. Cut a healthy stem with at least one node.
  2. Allow sap to stop flowing and callous slightly.
  3. Place cutting in moist soil or water.
  4. Roots typically form within 3–5 weeks.

Rubber Plant Problems (Fast Fix Guide)

Yellowing leaves

Cause: Overwatering

Fix: Allow soil to dry more between waterings

Leaf drop

Cause: Cold drafts or sudden changes

Fix: Move to stable warm location

Small new leaves

Cause: Low light

Fix: Increase indirect light

Pet Safety Warning

  • Rubber plants are toxic to cats and dogs.
  • Sap can irritate skin—handle with care.

Pet warning

Milky sap is toxic and irritating if ingested. Can cause mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting, and skin irritation.

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FAQ

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