Rubber tree
Ficus elastica
Rubber tree is a member of the Ficus (Fig) family. Its botanical name is Ficus elastica.
While the tree in its natural habitat can grow in excess of 9 metres (40 ft) for the houseplant grower, it won’t reach this high, nor will it likely flower, and it definitely will not fruit (a certain species of wasp is required to pollinate the flowers that is only present it its native habitat).
It is a houseplant that typically grows as an evergreen, which is defined as a plant that retains leaves throughout the year. Normally growing to a mature height of 12.00 metres (39.00 feet), Rubber tree grows with a tree habit. Some varieties of Rubber tree you may like to consider growing are: Decora, Variegata, Burgundy, Black Prince, and Ruby.India is believed to be where Rubber tree originates from.
Rubber tree is normally quite a low maintenance plant and is normally very easy to grow - great for beginner gardeners!
This plant info is provided by the myfolia gardener's wiki. All details about Rubber tree have been kindly provided by our members.
How to grow Rubber tree
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Dappled Sun
+ -
Medium
Just like many of it’s relatives Rubber trees do not like to be moved around or to have frequent changes in temperature or light.
It likes bright, indirect light but may become accustomed to full sun for at least a portion of the day (especially the variegated varieties).
Water when soil is quite dry (almost to the bottom of the pot) and then completely soak.
Try to plant in a location that enjoys dappled sun and remember to water moderately. Use Zone 10 - Zone 11 as your guideline for the appropriate climate for this plant. Rubber tree needs a potting mix soil with a ph of 5.1 to 6.5 (weakly acidic soil). Rubber tree is generally regarded as a tender plant, so remember to ensure that temperatures are mild before moving outdoors.Growing Rubber tree from seed
Unlikely to find seed available.
Transplanting Rubber tree
To propagate take stem cuttings in spring. To keep the sap from forming a cap on the base of the cutting, place it in water for about 1/2 hour. Remove from the water and dip the cut surface in rooting hormone. Then, insert it into moist potting mix to root.1
Companion plants for Rubber tree
These plants have been known to grow well alongside Rubber tree so consider planting:
Repellent plants for Rubber tree
These plants will not grow well with Rubber tree so avoid planting these within close proximity:
Common Rubber tree problems
These problems, diseases and pests are known to affect Rubber tree plants:
Rubber tree Etymology
Rubber Plant gets its name from the sticky sap that dries into a low-quality rubber.1
Rubber tree Folklore & Trivia
The plant is non toxic.2 However it may cause a reaction to those with latex allergies.3 There is debate on toxicity to pets.
Other names for Rubber tree
Rubber fig, Rubber ficus, Rubber plant, Indian rubber bush
Ficus decora, Ficus cordata
Rubber tree care instructions
How long does Rubber tree take to grow?
Footnotes
Popular varieties of Rubber tree
Rubber tree Tags
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