Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-5 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. It's better to underwater slightly than to overwater. Ensure good drainage.
Also known as Assam Rubber Tree · Burgundy Rubber Plant · Ficus Elastica 'tineke'
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Ficus elastica, commonly known as the rubber plant, is a popular houseplant prized for its large, glossy, leathery leaves and air-purifying qualities.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate lower light but may grow slower.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow the top 2-5 cm of soil to dry out between waterings.
Well-draining potting mix
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 16-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Indoor, Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Sap can cause skin irritation and gastrointestinal upset if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-5 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in winter. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. It's better to underwater slightly than to overwater. Ensure good drainage.
Prune to maintain shape, control size, or encourage bushier growth. Cut back stems just above a leaf node. Use clean, sharp tools. Pruning can be done any time of year, but is most effective in spring.
Remove any yellow or dead leaves.
Propagate by stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings with at least two leaf nodes. Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant in moist potting mix or place in water.
Roots typically form within a few weeks.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot one size larger than the current one. Use well-draining potting mix. Spring is the best time to repot. Water lightly after repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Ficus |
| Species | Ficus elastica |
Similar in genus Ficus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
