Ficus elastica

Common Names

Rubber Plant, Rubber Tree, Rubber Fig

Summary

Originates from eastern South and Southeast Asia; the rubber plant is a tropical evergreen with large glossy leaves and a fast-growing, upright habit; indoors it typically reaches about 6–10 ft tall, while variegated forms such as Burgundy and Tineke display burgundy or cream-and-green tones, and a milky latex sap is produced when cut, contributing to its distinctive tactile quality and air-purifying reputation.

Care essentials include bright indirect light, with tolerance for lower light though growth slows; well-draining, airy soil; water when the top 1–2 inches dry; temperatures around 65–85°F and humidity around 40–60%, with misting beneficial; repot every 2–3 years; fertilize spring/summer with balanced fertilizer every 2–4 weeks; propagate via cuttings or air layering; watch for pests such as scale and mealybugs; sap is milky and toxic if ingested and can irritate skin, so wearing gloves when pruning is advisable.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

6-10 feet

Spread

6-10 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 10-11

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial sun (bright indirect light); up to 0–30 minutes direct sun per day; tolerates partial shade

Soil Type

Loamy, well-draining, aerated soil with a pH of 5.5–7.

Soil Drainage

Well-draining, aerated soil that drains completely between waterings and remains moist but not soggy.

Soil pH

5.5-7, Slightly acidic to neutral.

Bloom Color

Insignificant

Foliage Color

Dark green leaves, with variegated forms showing yellow, cream, pink or white, and some burgundy varieties.

Fall Foliage Color

Green

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Fast growth, about 2 feet per year indoors and more than 2 feet per year outdoors.

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts none