Ficus elastica

Bring instant, modern greenery to your space with the Rubber Plant. Its thick, glossy leaves and upright form create a premium look with minimal effort—ideal for reception areas, living rooms, and bright offices. Place it in bright, filtered light, water when the soil surface dries, and enjoy a long-lasting statement plant that only gets better with time.

1. Basic Identification

Common Name: Rubber Plant
Botanical Name: Ficus elastica
Former Name: Not available
Plant Type: Foliage houseplant (Tree)
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0048
Alternative Names:
Indian Rubber Tree
Rubber Fig
مطات

2. Taxonomy & Classification

Order: Rosales
Family: Moraceae
Genus: Ficus
Species: elastica

3. Origin & Distribution

Native to: Northeast India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar (Burma), and parts of Malaysia
Distribution: Widely cultivated as an ornamental in tropical and subtropical climates worldwide; commonly grown indoors in temperate regions

4. Visual Characteristics

Leaves: Thick, glossy, leathery, elliptic to oblong, deep green (variegated forms exist); new leaves emerge rolled in a reddish sheath
Stem/Trunk: Upright, woody trunk exuding white latex when cut
Overall Habit: Upright, tree-like form with a central trunk and spreading branches

5. Size & Dimensions

Indoor Height: Typically 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m), depending on pot size and pruning
Leaf Size: 12–30 cm long, 5–12 cm wide
Growth Rate: Moderate; can add 30–60 cm of height per year under ideal conditions

6. Light Requirements

Prefers bright, indirect light; tolerates moderate light but growth slows
Avoid direct midday sun which can scorch leaves
Can adapt to lower light but may become leggy

7. Watering Needs

Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry
Maintain even moisture but avoid waterlogging
Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows

8. Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining potting mix: peat or coco coir with perlite or pine bark
Preferred pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Repot every 2–3 years or when root-bound

9. Temperature & Humidity

Optimal temperature: 15–29 °C (60–85 °F); minimum 13 °C (55 °F)
Average indoor humidity is sufficient; enjoys higher humidity to prevent leaf edge browning

10. Fertilization

Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Suspend feeding in fall and winter

11. Maintenance & Care Level

Low to moderate care level
Wipe leaves periodically to remove dust and promote photosynthesis
Prune to control size and remove dead or damaged foliage

12. Growth & Propagation

Propagation: Stem cuttings in water or soil; air layering for larger specimens
Cut just below a node, allow to callous briefly before rooting

13. Common Problems

Overwatering: Yellowing leaves, root rot
Underwatering: Brown leaf edges, leaf drop
Pests: Scale, mealybugs, spider mites
Low humidity: Browning or crisping leaf margins

14. Benefits & Uses

Ornamental: Striking foliage for homes and offices
Air purification: Removes formaldehyde and other VOCs
Stress reduction: Improves ambience and well-being

15. Toxicity & Safety

Contains latex that can cause skin irritation
Toxic if ingested by pets (cats, dogs) and humans: may cause oral irritation, vomiting, diarrhea
Wear gloves when handling sap