Rubber plant care

Ficus elastica needs bright light with no direct sun. Check the soil before you water.

This is general care advice. Check the label of your plant. Keep toxic plants away from pets and children.

Care at a glance

Botanical name: Ficus elastica
Other names: Rubber fig, Indian rubber tree
Light: Bright light, no direct sun. Put it near a bright window with filtered light. Turn the pot a quarter turn each month.
Soil check: Every 7 to 12 days in the growing season. The app learns the real time.
Humidity: Medium humidity
Feeding: Feed once a month in spring and summer. Do not feed in winter.

How does the soil feel 2 to 3 cm below the top?

Push a finger 2 to 3 cm into the soil. Feel if it is dry, damp or wet.

Dry: no soil sticks to your finger. Water the plant.
Damp: a little soil sticks to your finger. It feels cool. Do not water yet.
Wet: soil sticks to your finger and feels soggy, or you see water. Do not water. Check the drainage.

Do not water on a fixed day. Test the soil first. Read the soil check guide.

Use a well-draining mix. Mix potting soil with perlite or bark.

Leaf drop after a move is common. Keep the plant in one place with steady light.
Lower leaves that turn yellow and fall off often mean too much water. Let the top 3 to 5 cm dry.
The milky sap irritates skin. Wear gloves when you prune.

Toxic to cats and dogs. Keep it away from pets and children.