Black Prince Rubber Plant - Elastic shine for the Home
Updated: May 1
Ficus elastica (more commonly known as a rubber plant, rubber tree or rubber tree plant) is a popular houseplant because of its waxy leaves and larger-than-life appearance. Rubber plants can grow up to 100 feet in their native homeland of Southeast Asia. As a domesticated houseplant, rubber plants grow anywhere between six to ten feet tall. You can grow outdoor rubber plants if you live in zone 10 or 11. You can check out the USDA’s plant hardiness zone map here to learn more about the different zones.
Rubber plants are tree-like plants that are known for their great height and beautiful leaves. These grand plants also comes in different varieties and colors that complement any home decor theme.
The Rubber Tree is generally a very with weekly sprays of horticultural (Neem) oil, as well as regular wipe-downs of the plant.
Sunlight
The Rubber Tree needs at least six to eight hours of light daily. This can be lower light at times, but it is best to give this species medium to bright light, preferably bright indirect. If your windows receive harsh direct sun, placing a sheer curtain over it can help diffuse the light. You can tell if the Rubber Tree is not receiving enough light by the color on its leaves, which will begin fading.
Water
It is best to water your Rubber Tree every 1-2 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. Opt for the more frequent end of the range when the plant is receiving more light, such as in spring or summer, and in the fall or winter, reduce the frequency.
If the plant’s leaves begin curling inward or the potting mix is dry, this a sign you need to water it more often. Conversely, if the leaves begin dropping or the potting mix is wet, you should decrease the frequency of your watering schedule.
In their dormant season in the winter you want to keep the soil dry but not too dry. Let the top few inches of the soil dry in between waterings to make sure you don’t overwater. If the leaves start to droop, then your rubber plant is telling you it needs more water.
Humidity
The Rubber Tree is quite unfussy when it comes to humidity—it can tolerate any level, including normal room humidity.
Temperature
It is best to aim for a temperature of 65°F to 85°F (18°C-30°C) for your Rubber Tree, and not let it go below 60°F (15°C). Remember, this plant is native to warm jungle climates!
Toxicity: A rubber plant’s sap can cause skin irritation for some people. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling your plant, especially if you come in contact with the sap. Consuming this plant can cause mild tummy trouble or more severe symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting depending on how much is consumed.
Repotting:
You should repot your rubber plant to allow it to grow. You may need to do this every few years or every year depending on how large your pot is and how quickly your rubber plant grows. Don’t repot your rubber plant if you’d like to keep it at its current size.
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