Ficus elastica associated with the Fig family – better known as Rubber Tree. This tropical plant is native to humid climates like southern China, Southeast Asia and Indonesia.
Fun Fact: It’s sap is made with latex which was used to make rubber before synthetics were available.
Rubber trees make excellent houseplants, as they are low-light tolerant, and help clean the indoor air from pollutants.
General Care
Sunlight
Thrives in medium to bright indirect light, and can tolerate bright direct light.
Water
Water when you see the top 1 in – 2 inches of soil is dry. Remember this plant is used to humid rainy climates mixed with intense sun. So act like the sun and the clouds. Increase frequency with increased light.
Humidity
Any humidity level will do. Normal room humidity is fine. Mist your tree to add any humidity you may be lacking.
Temperature
65°F-85°F (18°C-30°C). It’s best not to let it go below 60°F (15°C).
Size
This plant can reach an ultimate height of about 30’ (10m) and will have a spread of about 10” (3.2m) over the years. However, as a houseplant, will be much smaller.
Common Problems
It is generally a very easygoing plant. May get scale and mealybugs. Treat scale bugs and mealybugs as soon as they appear with weekly sprays of horticultural (Neem) oil and regular wipe-downs of the plant.
SYMPTOM: Color fading on leaves
CAUSE: Not enough sunlight
SYMPTOM: Leaves curling inward coupled with dry potting mix
CAUSE: Underwatered
SYMPTOM: Leaves dropping coupled with wet potting mix
CAUSE: Overwatered
Precautions
This plant is poisonous to cats, dogs, and humans if consumed. Best practice is always to keep houseplants out of reach of small children and pets.
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