Rubber Tree Care Instructions

Scientific name: Ficus Elastica
Synonym: Rubber Tree , Rubber Fig, Rubber Bush, Rubber Plant, Indian Rubber bush, Indian Rubber Tree

The Rubber Plant is a ubiquitous indoor feature tree known for its large oval leaves, often in a variety of colours. They appear in shades of burgundy and deep greens, as well as variegated forms, including the very elegant Ficus Tineke.

For many centuries, Ficus Elastica have been a popular tree due to their commercial uses and landscaping uses. It is named for the latex that it produces, that when dried, turns into a low-quality rubber, that has been used as an alternative to the bulk of naturally produced rubber of Hevea brasiliensis.

This plant is popular among houseplants because it is easy to care for, has quick growth abilities, and can grow up to 3m indoors, whilst requiring little care. As an outstanding statement plant, its ability to grow from a small potted plant to a large tree is exceptional.

Rubber Trees are relatively hardy and tolerant of a variety of conditions. In contrast to Burgundy and Variegated varieties, green varieties do well in lower lighting conditions, adding to thier versatility. A low-maintenance plant, they prefer both moderate temperatures and water to do well. Even if things do go awry in their care, they tend to recover quickly.

As they begin to reach their more furniture plant size, they make excellent floor level candidates. While smaller varieties make a beautifully elegant tabletop arrangement. Overall, the Rubber Plant is a great houseplant for beginners and experienced gardeners looking for something that can grow large and be reliable.

Please note: the latex in Rubber Trees is considered toxic.

Rubber Tree Common Symptoms

Leaves Fall Off: This may be caused by too frequent moving of the plant – keep it in one place and let it settle there. Drastic changes in temperature will also cause leaf drop. Regulate temperature to address this. Take note however that it's perfectly natural for older, lower leaves to fall off. Other causes of excessive leaf drop include keeping the soil waterlogged for long periods. It is best to allow your plant to reach near dryness before watering again.
Yellow Leaves: This is a sign of overwatering. Reduce your watering, ensure that the soil dries out slightly between each watering. Click for more on Identifying overwatering vs Underwatering.
Dull drooping foliage: This is an indication that your Rubber Tree may be underwatered, giving your plant a dull lifeless appearance. Assess your watering frequency and ensure to water once the soil has reached near dryness. Avoid long periods of dry soil. Click for more on watering houseplants.
Sooty Mold: Can grow on the leaves, this is a sign of low ventilation. Add more air to the room by opening a window or placing a small Fan in the room to move the air around. Then, simply remove it by wiping off the affected leaves with mild soapy water, such as with a very dilute mixture of water and Sunlight liquid, otherwise treat with a fungicide such as Copper Soap.
Pests: The Rubber Tree is known to be relatively pest resistant, and often can fend off pests on their own. Though most common houseplant pest infestations should be dealt with immediately when noted to avoid spread to other plants. Treat any infestation with a good quality organic pesticide such as a neem based oil or Pyrol. Click for more on Houseplant Pests.