Rubber Plant

Friday, April 25, 2025

Common Names:

• Rubber Tree
• Rubber Plant
• Indian Rubber Tree
• Fig Tree

Family:

Moraceae (Mulberry family)

Native Region:

Southeast Asia, particularly India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Malaysia.

Plant Description:

• Size: Up to 100 feet (30 meters) outdoors, 6–10 feet (1.8–3 meters) indoors.
• Leaves: Glossy, oval-shaped, deep green. Some cultivars are variegated.
• Stem/Trunk: Thick, woody trunk as it matures.
• Flowers: Rarely flowers indoors; produces syconium in native environments.

Care Requirements:

Light:

• Bright, indirect light is ideal.
• Avoid direct sunlight to prevent scorching.

Watering:

• Water when top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.
• Avoid overwatering and soggy soil.
• Mist leaves or use a humidity tray in dry air.

Temperature:

• Preferred: 60–75°F (15–24°C).
• Avoid drafts and temps below 50°F (10°C).

Soil:

• Use well-draining potting mix (soil + perlite + peat moss).
• Ensure pot has drainage holes.

Fertilization:

• Every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer with balanced fertilizer.
• Reduce to every 6–8 weeks in fall/winter.

Pruning:

• Encourages new growth and controls size.
• Use sharp scissors to cut leggy or damaged branches.
• Propagate with stem cuttings.

Repotting:

• Every 1–2 years or when root-bound.
• Choose a pot 1–2 inches wider.
• Check for root rot if growth slows.

Common Problems:

• Yellowing Leaves: Often caused by overwatering.
• Leaf Drop: Stress from low light or inconsistent watering.
• Brown Leaf Tips: Indicates low humidity or underwatering.
• Pests: May attract mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites. Treat with insecticidal soap or wipe leaves.

Toxicity:

Rubber plants contain a milky sap that can irritate skin and is mildly toxic if ingested. Keep away from pets and small children.

Propagating Rubber Plant:

Stem Cuttings:

Take a 4–6 inch cutting with leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in moist soil, and keep warm/humid.

Air Layering:

Encourage roots to grow on a branch before cutting and potting it separately.

Varieties and Cultivars:

• Ficus elastica 'Robusta': Classic dark green variety.
• Ficus elastica 'Variegata': Creamy white or pink-streaked leaves.
• Ficus elastica 'Tineke': Green and white marbled leaves.

Benefits:

• Air Purification: Removes toxins like formaldehyde from air.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Its glossy, bold foliage adds natural beauty indoors.

Conclusion:

The rubber plant (Ficus elastica) is a low-maintenance, stunning indoor plant. It thrives with proper light, watering, and temperature, growing into an elegant feature in any room. Its air-cleaning abilities and bold foliage make it a favorite among plant lovers and interior decorators alike.