Rubber tree plant care

The Ficus elastica, also known as the Rubber plant, Rubber tree or Rubber fig, is a very popular indoor plant. It originally comes from Southeast Asia (India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar (Burma), Malaysia, Indonesia). In its natural habitat, it lives in a tropical environment characterized by high temperatures and a humid climate.

It belongs to the Moraceae family, which includes other popular plants such as figs. Rubber plants have been cultivated as ornamental plants for a long time, and over time, many varieties and hybrids have been developed. For centuries, we have valued Rubber plants for their beautiful, large leaves and decorative appearance.

Description of Rubber plant

Ficus elastica has shiny, large leaves that are usually dark green or reddish-green. The leaves are thick and leathery, with a characteristic waxy surface. The height of the Rubber plant can vary, and with proper care, it can grow into a tall tree. In its natural habitat, it can reach heights of up to 100 feet (30 meters), but as a houseplant, it usually grows to a maximum height of 6-10 feet (2-3 meters).

Ficus elastica - Rubber tree plant's large leaves and its new leaf

Rubber plant is easy to care for and relatively resistant. It tolerates lower light conditions and drier air, making it an ideal choice for an indoor plant. Like other ficus varieties, Rubber plant is effective at purifying the air, thanks to its large and thick leaves. It absorbs exhaled carbon dioxide and converts it into oxygen. For this reason alone, it is worth keeping it at home.

Ficus elastica is known not only as an ornamental plant but also as a rubber-producing plant. In humid conditions, the Rubber plant produces latex, which can be used in rubber production. However, in the rubber industry, the related species Hevea brasiliensis, or the real Rubber tree, is more commonly used.

Rubber plant care

Rubber plant care in short: place the Rubber plant in a bright spot but out of direct sunlight. It thrives at an average room temperature of 64-75 °F (18-24 °C) but does not tolerate frost. It has moderate water and nutrient requirements.

Light requirements for Rubber plant

Rubber plant prefers bright places with diffused light but should be protected from direct sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves, so it's best to place it where it receives minimal or no direct sunlight.

Although it doesn't need direct sunlight, the rubber plant's leaves can start to yellow and the plant can grow more slowly in the absence of light. If it doesn't receive enough light in its current location, find a brighter spot for it if possible.

If the light conditions are very different in the new location, the Rubber plant may need time to adapt. We may need to gradually acclimate it to the brighter environment to avoid stressing the plant.

For even growth, it's advisable to rotate the Rubber plant occasionally. This prevents the leaves from reaching towards the light in just one direction.

Temperature requirements for Rubber plant

An average room temperature between 64 - 75 °F (18 - 24 °C) is ideal for a Rubber plant. Lower temperatures and minor temperature fluctuations do not harm it, but in a too cold environment, its growth may slow down.

It does not handle extreme temperature changes well, so do not place it near heating units. Protect it from cold drafts and do not place it where the air conditioning blows cold air. Cold drafts can harm the Rubber plant, causing its leaves to yellow, curl, and eventually drop. Do not place it near windows or doors.

Most ficus varieties do not tolerate freezing conditions, so if you placed it outdoors during the summer, be sure to bring it indoors for the winter.

Watering Rubber plant

Generally, Rubber plant has moderate water needs. It is important not to let its soil dry out excessively, but it should not sit in water as this can lead to root rot. Water thoroughly until the water starts to drain out from the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the entire root system of Ficus elastica receives water. Afterward, pour out any excess water, do not let the pot sit in it.

With proper watering, the Rubber plant's soil should always be slightly moist but not soaked. After watering, wait for the top layer of soil to dry out before watering again. If you see, that the top layer is still moist, wait a few more days before watering again.

The frequency of watering depends on several factors, such as the amount of light, temperature, humidity, and the size of the plant. Generally, during the growing season (spring and summer), water the Rubber plant every 1-2 weeks. During its resting period (fall and winter), watering every 2-4 weeks may be sufficient.

For a Rubber plant the most ideal water is room temperature, which is soft, rain, or filtered water. Minerals in hard water can build up and damage the plant's roots. Avoid watering with water that has high levels of chlorine, fluoride, or other chemicals.

In winter, it needs less water as its growth slows and the plant rests. Only water it when the top layer of soil has visibly dried out.

If it receives too little water, its leaves will become dry, with crispy edges, and eventually fall off.

With overwatering, its leaves will start to yellow, droop, and fall off. Its roots will become soft and brown.

Fertilizing Rubber plant

It is important to supplement nutrients while caring for a Rubber plant. During the growing season (typically spring and summer), the ficus appreciates the nutrient boost. During this period, it is recommended to water with a nutrient solution every 2-4 weeks. If possible, also fertilize its soil in spring.

Use a general-purpose fertilizer designed for indoor plants, leafy ornamental plants, or houseplants. Look for a fertilizer with equal ratios of NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), such as 3-3-3. Always dilute the fertilizer according to the instructions on the packaging. Excessive nutrients can accumulate in the soil and harm the Rubber plant's roots and leaves.

During Ficus elastica's dormant period (usually fall and winter), do not fertilize. During this time, its growth slows, requiring fewer nutrients. In spring, when new shoots appear, you can start fertilizing again.

If you notice that the edges of Rubber plant's leaves are burnt or if you see salt buildup on the soil surface, reduce the frequency of fertilizing or dilute the fertilizer more.

Ficus elastica 'Tineke' - Variegated Rubber tree plant fig

Planting and repotting Rubber plant

Spring is generally the best time for repotting a Rubber plant, when the plants' growing season begins. However, if the roots have already outgrown the pot or the soil has become too compact, repotting may become urgent. For repotting a Rubber plant choose a flower pot which has drainage holes at the bottom. The pot size should be only slightly larger than the root ball of the plant. With this you can prevent overwatering and root rot.

Use a well-draining, loose soil mix for your Rubber plant's soil. A universal soil mix for indoor plants or a special mix for tropical plants is suitable. You can create a good soil mix for the plant by combining the soil with peat moss, perlite, or vermiculite.

For better drainage, you can place a layer of small pebbles at the bottom of the pot. Then add a layer of soil mix, leaving enough space for the root ball. Place your Rubber plant in the pot so that the roots can spread easily, and the Rubber plant sits at the same depth as in the previous pot. If it sits too low, add more soil to the bottom of the pot.

Fill the remaining space around the roots with soil mix. Gently press down to ensure the Rubber plant stands stable in the pot. Water the newly potted or repotted Rubber plant thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate any air pockets around the roots. Pour out any excess water from the saucer.

Tip: Water your Rubber plant thoroughly 1-2 days before repotting. This helps to loosen the root ball and the surrounding soil, causing less stress to the plant during repotting.

When repotting, it is advisable to inspect the roots of the Rubber plant. Check for pests, rot, or overcrowding. Remove damaged or circling roots with sharp scissors or a knife.

Winte care and overwintering the Rubber plant

During winter, Rubber plant requires a temperature between 64 - 75 °F (18 - 24 °C). It can tolerate slightly lower temperatures, but will not do well below 59 °F (15 °C). In winter, it is even more important to ensure the Ficus doesn't get drafts. With shorter days, the amount of light decreases, but try to provide the Ficus elastica with as much light as possible.

In winter, the humidity in the home can decrease due to heating. To counteract this, you can use a humidifier, which can also be beneficial for you.

Reduce the frequency of watering the Rubber plant in winter. Although some of us tend to overcare for our plants, try to resist this. If the top 1-2 inches (2-5 cm) of the Ficus' soil is not dry, then postpone watering.

Minimize or even stop fertilizing your Ficus elastica in winter, as the plant requires fewer nutrients during its dormant period due to slower growth.

Do not place Rubber plant near a heater or in a location where it can get cold drafts.

Spring care for Rubber plant

In spring, plants start to awaken, so gradually increase the frequency of watering the Rubber plant and you can start fertilizing it. In spring, we start ventilating more frequently; if necessary, move the Ficus elastica to another location to avoid cold drafts.

Spring is the best time for repotting Ficus elastica if necessary. Even if it has not outgrown its pot, refreshing and replacing the soil every 1-2 years is beneficial for the plants.

Pruning and thinning Rubber plant

Pruning a Rubber plant usually has two main purposes. One is to remove old or damaged shoots. The other purpose is shaping, which allows us to form the plant to the desired shape and regulate its size and density.

You can prune the plant at any time of the year, but it is best to do it in spring or early summer when Ficus elastica is actively growing. It regenerates more easily and branches more quickly during this time. Avoid excessive thinning in the winter months.

Removing old or damaged leaves and shoots

Cut off leaves and shoots that are dried out, dead, or damaged. Removing dead or diseased leaves and shoots prevents the potential spread of infections.

Thinning

If your Rubber fig plant has become too dense, remove shoots from the interior parts to allow more light and better air circulation. Prune carefully to avoid damaging the plant. You can remove entire branch clusters or individual branches that are overcrowded or rubbing against each other. Cut just above the point where the branch you want to cut off meets another branch or the trunk.

Shaping and maintaining size

If you want to shape your Rubber plant to a desired form, prune the shoots accordingly. This allows the plant to look nice and even. If you want to control the height of your Ficus elastica plant, start pruning with the tallest and longest branches.

After more substantial pruning, water regularly to help it regenerate.

Propagating a Rubber plant

Propagating a Rubber plant from leaf or stem cuttings is the simplest method, although rooting can take several weeks or months. Whichever method you choose, it is best done in spring, especially if you are planning to prune your Ficus elastica as well.

Propagating Rubber plant from stem cuttings

Choose a healthy, strong shoot that is at least 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long. Make sure the shoots have healthy leaves.

Cut the selected shoot with sharp, clean pruning shears or a knife. Make the cut at an angle and remove the leaves from the bottom part of the stem, leaving only the leaves on the upper part.

If desired, you can pre-treat your Rubber plant cuttings by dipping them in rooting hormone to encourage faster root development.

Plant the cutting in moist, well-draining soil or, if possible, in a special rooting medium. Make a hole (e.g., by sticking a pencil into the soil), then place the cutting into the hole.

Make sure not to plant the cuttings too deeply, but ensure at least one node (where the leaf was cut) is below the soil surface.

Place your Ficus elastica cuttings in a warm and humid environment. You can achieve this by covering the cutting and pot with a plastic bag or placing a jar over it to create a mini greenhouse effect. This helps retain moisture and stimulates root formation.

Periodically check your small fig cuttings to see if roots have developed. This process can take from a few weeks to several months.

Once the cuttings have enough roots, transplant them into larger pots or containers where you can begin regular care for your small Rubber fig plant.

Propagating Rubber plant from leaf cuttings

Rubber plant can also be propagated from leaf cuttings. Cut the leaf at the point where it meets the branch, and it is important to also cut out a small piece of the branch or trunk. Moisten this lower part, then plant and care for it just as you would for a stem cutting.

Ficus elastica 'Ruby' - variegated, red-leaved Rubber tree plant fig

Rubber plant flowers

Rubber plant does have flowers, but it rarely blooms indoors, and if it does, the flowers often go unnoticed. Rubber plant's flowers are small and inconspicuous, as they are not as showy or ornamental as those of other plants. The flowers usually grow under the leaves or at the base of the shoots and can be greenish or creamy in color.

The timing of Rubber plant flowering can vary. It depends on several factors, including the environment and the plant's age. Generally, older, more mature fig plants are more likely to flower than younger ones. Rubber plant can flower at any time of the year, especially if kept in warm, humid, and bright conditions.

Rubber plant varieties

All varieties of Rubber plants are large-leaved figs, with both the leaves and the plant itself capable of growing quite large.

Ficus elastica: The original Ficus, which can grow into a large tree. It has dark green, shiny, large leaves.

Ficus elastica 'Tineke': This variety of Ficus elastica has variegated, large leaves with green, creamy, and pinkish hues. It is highly valued for its colorful foliage and is a striking addition to indoor plant collections.

Ficus elastica 'Ruby': Another variety of Ficus elastica, 'Ruby' has dark red or burgundy large leaves that add a bold splash of color to indoor spaces. Its striking foliage and unique appearance make it highly sought after.

Other Ficus varieties

The Ficus elastica, or Rubber tree plant family includes several other popular and similar varieties.

The Fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) has large, fiddle-shaped leaves that are dark green and very decorative. The Fiddle-leaf fig is also a popular indoor ornamental plant, similar to the Rubber tree plant.

The Weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) is another closely related variety. This type has smaller, oval-shaped leaves that gracefully hang from slender branches. Because of its small leaves, it is often called the small-leaf fig or tiny leaf fig.

The small-leaf fig, Chinese Banyan or Malayan Banyan (Ficus microcarpa) has small, shiny, round leaves. In its natural habitat, it can grow into a huge tree. With a little skill, you can try to train it into a small bonsai tree.

The Ficus ginseng bonsai (Ficus microcarpa 'Ginseng') is specifically grown as a bonsai tree. It is a hybrid variety of the small-leaf fig. It has a small trunk, but its leaves are the same. This ficus is particularly suitable for small spaces and bonsai collections.

The Ficus bonsai tree (Ficus retusa) is popular for its thick, bulbous trunk and small, oval leaves. Due to its unique trunk shape and easy care, it is often grown as a bonsai tree.

Diseases, pests and main causes of Rubber plant decline

Like any other houseplant, Ficus elastica is susceptible to certain diseases and pests, and several factors can cause the Rubber tree plant's condition to deteriorate. Timely detection and treatment are crucial to maintaining the health of the fig. If the plant's condition is declining or showing signs of disease, it is advisable to identify the problem and take appropriate measures to resolve it.

Rubber plant diseases

Leaf spot can be caused by fungal or bacterial infections. Dark spots and lesions appear on the leaves of Ficus elastica. These spots can enlarge, eventually leading to leaf drop. Improve air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and remove affected leaves to prevent further spread. In more severe cases, fungicide treatment may be necessary.

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves of the Rubber fig plant. It occurs in humid environments with poor air circulation. Reduce humidity around the plant and improve air circulation. If necessary, thin out the plant to allow better airflow. In severe infections, fungicide treatment may be required.

Rubber plant pests

Scale insects and aphids frequently attack Rubber plants and can damage the plant by sucking the sap, especially from the leaves. Symptoms include yellowing, drying, and falling leaves. Scale insects appear as small, oval-shaped bumps on the fig leaves and stems. Wash the plant with soapy water. If necessary, use insecticidal soap or sprays.

Spider mites are tiny pests that suck plant sap in dry conditions. Symptoms include spotted leaves, web-like formations, and falling leaves. Remove them with soapy water or use insecticides. To prevent their appearance, increase humidity around the Rubber fig plant.

Mealybugs form white, cotton-like masses on the leaves and stems of the Rubber plant. Like other pests, they also suck the plant's sap. Remove them by wiping with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. If necessary, use insecticides.

Environmental factors, incorrect care for Ficus Elastica

Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot, which is caused by a fungus that thrives in wet conditions. Symptoms include soft, yellowing, drooping leaves, waterlogging, and softening of the stems. Pay close attention to watering when caring for your Rubber fig plant.

Insufficient watering can lead to leaf drop and leaf drying. Initially, the edges of the Rubber fig leaves become crispy, turn brown, yellow, and eventually the entire leaf dries out.

If the Rubber plant does not receive enough light, it can slow down the plant's growth. You may notice that even though you provide everything else, it still doesn't grow.

Nutrient deficiency or excess: Rubber plants need appropriate nutrients, and if they are missing or in excess in the soil, it can affect the plant's condition.

Is Rubber plant toxic?

Yes, Rubber tree plant, like most Ficus varieties, can be toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Rubber fig plants contain a milky latex substance (plant sap) that can cause irritation and allergic reactions upon contact with the skin.

Ingesting any part of the plant (leaves, stems, sap) can cause the following symptoms in pets and humans: mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea.

If you have small children or pets in the household, it is particularly important to ensure that the plant is not easily accessible to them.