Rubber Tree
Ficus elastica
The rubber tree is a striking indoor tree with large, thick, glossy leaves that can be deep green or burgundy. It is easy to grow and can become an impressive floor plant several feet tall.
- Light
- Bright indirect light
- Water
- When top inch is dry
- Difficulty
- Easy
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Overview
The rubber tree (Ficus elastica) is an evergreen tree in the fig family, native to South and Southeast Asia. As a houseplant it is grown for its bold, leathery, high-gloss leaves and upright tree form.
Its common name comes from the milky latex sap, which was once used as a source of natural rubber before being supplanted by the Pará rubber tree. Cultivars range from solid dark green to deep burgundy ('Burgundy') and variegated pink-and-cream ('Tineke,' 'Ruby').
Forgiving and fast-growing, the rubber tree can reach the ceiling indoors and become a dramatic statement plant with minimal fuss.
How to identify it
- Leaves: Large, thick, glossy, oval leaves up to 12 inches long; deep green, burgundy, or variegated depending on cultivar
- New growth: Emerges from a colorful sheath (often pink or red) at the stem tip
- Sap: Exudes a milky white latex when cut
- Habit: Upright tree, single or branching trunk
- Size: 6-10 feet indoors; up to 100 feet in the wild
Care & growing
Light: Bright, indirect light. Variegated types need more light to keep their color; green types tolerate medium light. Avoid harsh direct sun.
Water: Water when the top inch of soil dries. Keep evenly moist in summer, drier in winter; avoid soggy soil.
Soil: Well-draining potting mix.
Temperature: Prefers 60-80°F (15-27°C); avoid cold drafts.
Feeding: Balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
Propagation: From stem cuttings or air layering. Wipe leaves to keep them glossy and prune to control height.
Habitat & origin
Ficus elastica is native to the rainforests of northeastern India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and across Southeast Asia to Indonesia, where it grows into a massive tree, often starting as an epiphyte and dropping aerial roots.
It is grown outdoors in frost-free tropical and subtropical climates (USDA zones 10-12) and worldwide as a hardy indoor tree.
Uses & benefits
Ornamental: A popular indoor tree valued for its bold, glossy foliage and easy care.
Practical: Historically tapped for its latex to make natural rubber; in India, the aerial roots of related fig trees are trained into living root bridges.
Caution: The milky latex sap is toxic to cats and dogs and can irritate skin and the digestive tract.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water a rubber tree?
When the top inch of soil is dry — roughly weekly in summer and less in winter. Avoid letting it sit in soggy soil.
Why are the leaves dropping?
Leaf drop is often caused by overwatering, cold drafts, or sudden changes in light or location. Keep conditions stable and check the soil moisture.
Is the rubber tree toxic?
Yes, the milky sap is toxic to cats and dogs and can irritate human skin, so wash your hands after pruning.
How do I keep my rubber plant bushy?
Prune the growing tip to encourage branching, and give variegated types plenty of bright indirect light to maintain color.
Rubber Tree guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for Rubber Tree.
