Light
Bright, indirect light; variegated forms need more of it.
Florli plant library
Rubber plant: light, watering and healthy leaves
Ficus elastica. A stable position suits it best, while the broad leaves benefit from regular cleaning and inspection.
Watering
Water after the mix has partly dried, then empty the outer pot or saucer.
Soil
A fertile, free-draining mix in a pot with drainage.
More useful detail
Care over time
Rhythm through the year
The plant uses water faster during brighter growth. As days shorten, extend the interval but keep checking the mix.
Growth and repotting
Repot when roots have filled the container. Wear gloves when pruning because the milky sap may irritate skin.
Plant
A simple care routine for Rubber plant
- 1
Check moisture a few centimetres below the surface.
- 2
Rotate the pot if the canopy leans strongly towards the window.
- 3
Wipe the leaves and inspect their undersides.
Observation
Changes worth checking
- Many lower leaves dropping
- Soft, dark patches
- Sticky leaves or small scales
Important
The milky sap may irritate skin, and eating the plant can harm children or pets. Wear gloves when pruning and keep it out of reach.
Sources and further reading: NC State Extension: Ficus elastica
From advice to your own plan
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Coming soon to the App Store and Google Play.Prepared by Florli. This is general guidance. Sources are listed with each guide, and every decision should reflect the species, location, weather and the plant’s current condition.