Rubber Plant at a Glance

Care factor What Rubber Plant wants
Light bright indirect light, with a little gentle morning or evening sun
Water water deeply only when the soil has dried out completely, roughly every 14 days in the growing season, and far less in winter
Temperature comfortable around 55–85°F (13–29°C)
Humidity average home humidity is fine
Soil a standard peat-free houseplant mix
Difficulty very easy -- great for beginners
Pet safe no -- keep it away from cats and dogs

Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica) is a favourite among indoor gardeners because wipe the big glossy leaves monthly so they photosynthesise well..

Light Needs

Rubber Plant wants bright indirect light, with a little gentle morning or evening sun. The milky sap was once used to make actual rubber.

Watering

water deeply only when the soil has dried out completely, roughly every 14 days in the growing season, and far less in winter. Note The sap or leaves can irritate pets if chewed, so site it out of reach.

Soil and Pot

Use a standard peat-free houseplant mix. A pot with a real drainage hole is non-negotiable -- sitting in water is the fastest way to lose a Rubber Plant.

Temperature and Humidity

It is happiest around comfortable around 55–85°F (13–29°C). average home humidity is fine.

How to Propagate Rubber Plant

The easiest method is with a stem cutting left to callus then rooted. Let any cut surface dry for a day or two before it touches soil or water, then keep it barely moist until roots appear.

Common Problems and Fixes

  • Leaning or stretched growth -- it wants more light. Move it brighter or add a grow light.
  • Mushy, yellow base -- overwatering. Let it dry out and check the roots.
  • Brown, crispy edges -- usually low humidity or salt build-up; flush the soil and raise humidity a little.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I water Rubber Plant?

A:

water deeply only when the soil has dried out completely, roughly every 14 days in the growing season, and far less in winter.

Q: Is Rubber Plant safe for pets?

A:

no -- keep it away from cats and dogs.

Q: What light is best?

A:

bright indirect light, with a little gentle morning or evening sun.

Q: How do I make more of it?

A:

With a stem cutting left to callus then rooted.

Q: Why are the leaves changing colour?

A:

A little colour shift with the seasons is normal; dramatic scorch means too much direct sun, while fading to plain green means it wants more light.

Rubber Plant rewards a little attention with years of easy beauty. For a personalised schedule, try our free watering calculator and pair it with the light calculator to pick the perfect spot.