Rubber Tree-Burgundy variegated pink

A rubber tree plant is also known as a Ficus elastica. These large trees can grow up to 50 feet tall. When learning how to care for a rubber tree plant, there are a few key things to remember, but rubber plant care isn’t as difficult as one might think.

Light:

• Rubber trees thrive in bright, indirect light.

  South or East facing light, light over the full plant. Rotating every time you water the tree. 

  Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, but too little light can cause them to become leggy and lose leaves.

Watering:

• Water the plant thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Be careful not to overwater, as rubber trees don’t like sitting in soggy soil. Make sure the pot has good drainage.

Humidity:

• Rubber trees prefer higher humidity but can tolerate average indoor levels. If your home is very dry, consider misting the leaves occasionally or placing a humidifier nearby.

Temperature:

• Keep your rubber tree in a warm space (65°F to 75°F or 18°C to 24°C). Avoid placing it in cold drafts or near heat sources like radiators.

Soil:

• Use a well-draining potting mix ideally would be bark, cactus soil, and perlite for aeration.

Fertilizing:

• During the growing season (spring and summer), you can feed your rubber tree once a month with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Reduce fertilization in the fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

Pruning:

• Prune rubber trees to control their size or shape. If they get too tall, you can cut back the stem to encourage bushier growth. Always prune just above a leaf node to promote new growth.

Repotting:

• Rubber trees generally need to be repotted every 1-2 years, or when they become root-bound. Choose a pot that’s 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Troubleshooting:

• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or low light.
• Brown leaf tips: Low humidity or underwatering.
• Leaf drop: Sudden environmental changes or overwatering.

With some basic attention, a rubber tree can grow into a beautiful, glossy-leaved indoor plant!