Rubber Plant Care Guide
Ficus elastica
Rubber Plants are bold statement plants with thick, glossy leaves in deep green or dramatic burgundy. They're easier than their fiddle leaf fig cousins while being equally impressive.
Watering
Water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry. Rubber plants prefer to dry out between waterings but don't like to stay dry for long. They'll droop dramatically when thirsty. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Light Requirements
Rubber plants thrive in bright indirect light. Darker varieties (burgundy) tolerate lower light; variegated types (tineke, ruby) need more light to maintain colors. Some direct morning sun is fine, but intense afternoon sun can scorch leaves.
Humidity & Temperature
Average home humidity (40-50%) is fine for rubber plants. They appreciate slightly higher humidity but aren't fussy. Brown leaf edges may indicate dry air. Keep temperatures between 60-80°F and away from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
Feed monthly during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer. Rubber plants are moderate feeders. Reduce feeding in fall, stop in winter. Over-fertilizing causes salt buildup and brown edges.
Common Problems
- Dropping leaves: Usually environmental stress – overwatering, cold drafts, or sudden change.
- Yellow leaves: Overwatering or natural aging of lower leaves.
- Leggy growth: Not enough light. Prune and move to brighter spot.
- Sticky leaves: Scale insects. Wipe leaves and treat with neem oil.
- Loss of variegation: Too little light for variegated types.
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