Rubber Plant
Ficus Elastica Origin: Southeast Asia
In the wild, Ficus Elastica can reach towering heights of over 100-feet tall, its oval-shaped leaves forming a thick canopy. In the home, it will also grow steadily into a large plant, rewarding regular attention with beautiful foliage that cleans the air of toxins.
Common Issues
Leaf yellowing: Most often a result of overwatering and/or heavy soil.
Leaf drop: Dry air, cold drafts and too little light are possible causes of leaf drop. Try moving your plant away from drafty windows or adding a supplemental plant light.
Light: These plants prefer bright, indirect light, so take advantage of any southern or western exposures in the home.
Water: This plant loves moist soil, but like most plants, hates to be constantly soggy and can’t tolerate wet roots. Allow the top two inches of soil to dry out before giving it a good drink.
Humidity: Higher humidity is preferable, but your home’s average humidity should suffice.
Growth: Indoors, this plant can grow somewhere between 8-10 feet tall, its leaves reaching up to 12 inches long and 5 inches wide. While it produces a small yellow fruit in the wild, don’t expect to see any while keeping it as a houseplant.
Soil: Rubber plants can do well in any soil with good drainage and the ability to retain some moisture. Consider adding a part of peat moss and perlite to regular potting soil to ensure proper drainage and moisture levels.
Temperature: Rubber plants aren’t too picky when it comes to temperature, but will do best when kept between 55-85°F. If keeping your plant at a lower temperature, be sure to reduce your watering schedule.
Repotting: If you notice roots emerging from drainage holes or circling the container, it's time to repot your Ficus. Gently rock and pull your tree from its pot and tease the roots before potting up to a new container that is 3-6 inches larger.
Extra TLC: Consider introducing a humidifier or pebble tray if you see any signs of leaf drop.