Plant Passport
Rubber Plant
Ficus elastica
LightBright
Water7-10d
PetCheck
PP FICU SELA STIC
Issued 2026 · Valid while cared for
Rubber Plant
Rubberplant
Ficus elastica
“Glossy, steady, and quietly dramatic.”
air purifyingstatement plantbeginner friendlylarge plantmedium light
- Light
- Medium light
- Water
- Let dry between waterings
- Pet safety
- Mildly toxic
- This month
- Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the upright shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Thick glossy oval leaves in deep green.
August care tip
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the upright shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Thick glossy oval leaves in deep green.
Quick Care Summary
- Light
- Medium light
- Water
- Let dry between waterings
- Placement
- Best in bright indirect light with room for upright growth, protected from harsh midday sun and cold draughts.
- Temperature
- 15–30°C
- Humidity
- moderate
Free printable Plant Passport card
Print, cut, and place this Rubber Plant card in the pot. Add the physical card if you want the finished version.
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Plant Passport
Rubber Plant
LightBright
Water7-10d
Botanical stake card
- Format
- 150 x 25mm
- Best for
- Slim plant stakes and gift pots
Use the card section above when you are ready to download or add a printed card.
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View holders →Detailed Care Guide
Watering Method
Water deeply, let the pot drain, then wait until the mix has dried clearly before the next round.
Soil Mix
well-draining potting mix with perlite, bark and a stable heavy pot
Repotting
Repot or refresh the top layer in spring when roots are active.
Pruning
Prune lightly during active growth and remove damaged leaves promptly.
Pot Preference
Use a pot with drainage; choose weight and size to match the plant's top growth.
Fertilizing
Feed lightly from March to September; skip fertilizer in winter or during cool rest.
Draft Sensitivity
Keep above 15 C and away from sharp cold draughts.
Sources consulted
- powo.science.kew.org
- www.aspca.org
- www.rhs.org.uk
Room Placement
Window Direction
East or west filtered light, or a bright spot set back from south glass.
Best Room
bright indirect light with room for upright growth
Monthly Care Calendar
Aug (now)
Finish the strongest growth flush with one more light feed. Review support or pruning needs for the upright shape before tired leaves hide pests Cue: Thick glossy oval leaves in deep green.
Sep
Start reducing fertilizer and stretch watering as nights cool. Move Rubber Plant closer to bright filtered light before autumn light drops Cue: Thick glossy oval leaves in deep green.
Oct
Stop feeding and prepare for heating season. Keep temperature steady and avoid cold drafts Cue: Thick glossy oval leaves in deep green.
Nov
Winter risk check: test soil before watering, inspect thick glossy oval leaves in deep green, and keep the pot draining freely while growth slows Cue: Thick glossy oval leaves in deep green.
Watering Schedule
- Summer
- Every 8 days
- Winter
- Every 18 days
Feel well into the mix; water only when it has dried clearly.
Common Problems
Propagation
stem cuttings in soileasyspring
Propagate during active growth, keep the material warm and lightly moist, and wait for new growth before potting on.
Pests & Diseases
Spider mites
Early signs
Fine speckling, sticky residue or webbing on stressed new growth.
Treatment
Rinse or wipe leaves, isolate the plant and repeat treatment weekly until clear.
Mealybugs
Early signs
Cottony clusters, scale-like bumps or sour smell near the crown and leaf joints.
Treatment
Remove visible pests, improve airflow and check roots if the problem returns.
Buying Tips
Choose Rubber Plant with clean growth, firm stems and no pests in the leaf joints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fun Facts
Rubber was once collected from its latex, but indoor plants are now grown for glossy architectural foliage.
Origin & Natural Habitat
Native from South Asia into Southeast Asia, where it grows as a large tropical tree with aerial roots.
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