A robust indoor tree with thick, glossy oval leaves in deep green or burgundy tones. Tolerant and long-lived, it grows into a handsome upright specimen.
At a glance
- Plant type: Indoor plant
- Mature size: 2.5 m tall
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Rubber Plant
Ficus elastica is a moderate-growing indoor plant in the Moraceae family. It reaches around 2.5 m tall at maturity, with evergreen, variegated and purple-toned foliage.
Where to grow Rubber Plant
Rubber Plant suits tropical and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Rubber Plant provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Rubber Plant does best with regular, moderate watering. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Rubber Plant in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Rubber Plant in the garden
Rubber Plant earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and tropical climate as Rubber Plant. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Rubber Plant
Plant Sale lists Rubber Plant as potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
