Is there a perfect houseplant? One that’s low maintenance, can thrive for years, and always looks stunning? I believe the rubber tree fits the bill perfectly. With its glossy, thick leaves, this plant can really elevate any room.
My favorite rubber tree moment is from the movie Sabrina with Audrey Hepburn. There’s this lavish party scene with a gorgeous, tall rubber tree stealing the show. That’s definitely a plant goal right there!
Maybe one day mine will get that big and beautiful too! With the right care, these trees can reach up to 10 feet tall indoors!
The rubber tree, or Ficus Elastica, hails from India and tropical Asia. Its shiny, leathery leaves give it a distinctive look that stands out in any plant collection.
Table of Contents
- Potting
- Light
- Watering
- Pruning
- Fertilizing
- What if Your Rubber Tree is Dropping Leaves?
Potting
When you bring home your new rubber tree, there are a few things to keep in mind with potting. It might sound like a good idea to use a huge pot so it has plenty of room to grow, but rubber trees actually prefer a bit of a snug fit.
Choose a pot that allows about 2 inches of space around the root ball. This gives your plant enough room to grow without overwhelming it. Earthenware pots are a great choice, allowing moisture to evaporate. Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting and causing root rot.
As for soil, the rubber tree loves well-draining soil. An all-purpose indoor mix works well, but I like to add extra perlite for better aeration. Simply place some of the potting mix at the bottom of the pot, set your plant in, and fill in around it, keeping it straight. Once potted, place your rubber tree in its new home – these plants dislike being moved!
Light
Rubber trees are light-lovers! Finding the perfect spot is key to keeping your plant happy. Avoid drafts, vents, or AC units as they can cause the plant to drop leaves or even die. A spot with medium to bright light is ideal, with brighter light fostering faster growth.
If your plant is not getting enough light, it might become “leggy” as it stretches towards the light. Move it to a brighter spot if this happens. Variegated species, like tricolor, need even more light due to their lower chlorophyll levels. Watch for any leaf tip browning – a sign of too much light.
For rooms with low light, try placing a mirror near the plant to reflect more light. Painting the room white can also help bounce light around. Keeping the leaves dust-free will also maximize light absorption. Dust can be easily removed with a damp cloth, but be gentle with new leaves as they are fragile.
Watering
Getting into a consistent watering routine is crucial for your rubber tree’s health. If the leaves start to droop, it’s a sign your plant needs water. Rubber trees like their soil to dry out between waterings but avoid letting it get bone dry.
To check if it’s time to water, see how fast the water runs through the soil. Quick drainage means it’s very thirsty, so give it a thorough soak. Letting the top two-thirds of the soil dry out before watering again is a good rule. Ensure any excess water is drained from the saucer to prevent root rot.
Pruning
Rubber trees can grow quite tall if left untrimmed. If you prefer a taller, single-trunk look, let it grow. But if you want a bushier plant, pinch off new growth tips to encourage branching. Pruning is rewarding and helps shape your tree over time.
Fertilizing
Rubber trees enjoy being fertilized during their growing season (spring and summer). Fertilize every other watering with a liquid fertilizer. I prefer liquid because it ensures even distribution.
A standard houseplant fertilizer will do, but make sure to follow the instructions and avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the plant. If you suspect over-fertilization, give your plant a good watering to flush out excess nutrients and skip the next fertilizing session.
What if Your Rubber Tree is Dropping Leaves?
It’s not uncommon for a rubber tree to drop some leaves after being repotted or moved due to shock. Old leaves falling occasionally is normal too. However, if it’s dropping many leaves, it could be due to overwatering or lack of light. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering.
If the problem persists, check the roots for rot – mushy, dark roots are a sign. Remove affected roots and replant in fresh soil, giving the plant time to recover. Also, make sure the plant is getting enough light and isn’t in a drafty spot.
The rubber tree is an easygoing plant and a fantastic addition to any home. I hope these tips help you enjoy your rubber tree for years to come!