Ficus elastica, commonly known as the rubber plant or rubber tree, is a popular houseplant admired for its bold, glossy foliage and easy-care nature. Here’s a full breakdown of what makes this plant special:

🌿 Overview

• Botanical name: Ficus elastica

• Common names: Rubber plant, rubber tree, Indian rubber bush, rubber fig

• Native range: Southeast Asia—from the Himalayas to Malaysia, Sumatra, and Java 2

• Type: Evergreen houseplant or small tree

• Height: Up to 100 feet outdoors; typically 6–10 feet indoors

🌞 Light & Environment

• Prefers bright, indirect sunlight

• Can tolerate low light but grows slower

• Ideal indoor temperatures: 10°C to 29°C

• Sensitive to dry air—mist regularly or place in a humid room like a bathroom

💧 Water & Soil

• Water when the top inch of soil is dry

• Use well-draining soil—a mix of peat, pine bark, and perlite works well

• Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

🌱 Growth & Varieties

• Fast-growing and can become a large floor plant

• Popular varieties include:

  • ‘Robusta’ – large, dark green leaves

  • ‘Burgundy’ – deep red-black foliage

  • ‘Tineke’ – variegated green, white, and pink leaves

  • ‘Ruby’ – red-pink and white tones

  • ‘Tricolor’ – green with pink and cream patches

✂️ Care Tips

• Prune to control height and encourage bushier growth

• Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring and summer)

• Repot every 1–2 years when root-bound

• Propagate via stem cuttings

⚠️ Safety Notes

• The plant’s milky sap is toxic to pets and can irritate skin and eyes

• Always wear gloves when pruning