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Plant care · Ficus elastica

Rubber Plant care guide

Thick, glossy leaves and an easy-going nature. It's a simpler alternative to the fiddle leaf fig.

Quick care

  • Light: Bright, indirect light keeps it compact and keeps dark varieties richly colored.
  • Water: Water when the top 2–3 inches are dry, every 1–2 weeks.
  • Soil: A well-draining indoor mix.
  • Humidity: Average humidity. Wipe the leaves to keep them dust-free.
  • Feeding: Monthly in the growing season.

Is rubber plant safe for pets?

Not pet-safe. Toxic to cats and dogs. The sap can irritate skin. See our guide to toxic plants for cats and dogs.

Common problems and fixes

  • Lower leaves dropping: Overwatering or low light. Let it dry more and give it more light.
  • Leggy growth: Too dark. Move it closer to a window and prune to encourage branching.

Not sure what's wrong? Read What's Wrong With My Plant?

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Reviewed October 7, 2026

Sources

Care and pet-safety guidance was checked against these expert references.