Rubber Plant
Ficus elastica
A Southeast Asian ficus with large, leathery, high-gloss leaves that can reach impressive indoor heights with fairly simple care. Bright indirect light and a dry-down between waterings keep it upright and full.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Easy
Humidity
Moderate
Pet Warning
The plant contains a milky latex sap that is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested. It can also cause skin irritation (dermatitis) in humans upon contact.
Full care guide
Rubber Plant Care
Grow Ficus elastica (Rubber Plant) with bright indirect light, a deep dry-down between waterings, and regular leaf cleaning so those glossy leaves stay strong.
Read the guideCare Notes
Full guide →Light
Bright, indirect light supports sturdy growth. Lower light is tolerated, but stems stretch and leaves lose their shine. Avoid harsh afternoon sun that scorches thick leaves. Variegated forms need the brighter end of the range.
Water
Water when the top 50-75% of the mix is dry. Soak until water leaves the drainage holes, then empty the saucer. Overwatering is the most common reason leaves drop.
Soil
Use an aerated mix of peat moss, pine bark, and perlite. A snug planter with drainage holes beats an oversized wet pot.
Humidity & Temperature
Aim for about 60-85°F. Moderate humidity is ideal, though average home air usually works. Add a pebble tray or humidifier if the room is very dry. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth so dust does not block light.
Common Issues
Lower leaves dropping often means overwatering or cold drafts. Pale new growth can mean low light or a need for fertilizer in the growing season. When you prune in spring, expect milky sap; protect skin and wipe cuts clean.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced 10-10-10 water-soluble fertilizer
Soil
A well-draining, aerated potting mix containing peat moss, pine bark, and perlite.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
6 to 10 feet (indoors)
Growth Rate
Fast
Propagation
Stem cuttings or air layering.
Common Varieties
Tineke
Large thick oval leaves patterned in forest green, sage, and creamy white, often with a pinkish midrib.
Burgundy
Broad glossy leaves in near-black burgundy with red midribs and undersides.
Ruby
Broad glossy oval leaves with green and cream variegation flushed pink and burgundy.
Robusta
Extra-broad leathery oval leaves in deep forest green with a strong central midrib.
Doescheri
Narrow pointed leaves marbled dark green and grey with creamy-yellow margins and pink-tinted midribs.
Ficus elastica 'Doescheri'
A narrower-leaved variegated form with creamy yellow, grey-green, and deep forest green, often with pink or orange-tinted midribs and sheaths.
Ficus elastica 'Shivereana'
Also called Moonshine Rubber Plant. Large leathery leaves speckled with pale cream, lime, and dark emerald. Slower growing than many rubber plant cultivars.
Rubber Tree 'Burgundy'
Thick glossy leaves in deep burgundy to near-black on an upright plant. Same care as other Ficus elastica cultivars.
Rubber Tree 'Ruby'
Tri-colored leaves in rose-pink, creamy white, and deep forest green on the classic rubber tree form.
Rubber Tree 'Tineke'
Large waxy leaves with cream, gray-green, and dark green patterning. Variegated forms need brighter light to hold their contrast.