Rubber Plant, Rubber Tree, Indian Rubber Fig

Plant of the day

Ficus elastica

Rubber Plant, Rubber Tree, Indian Rubber FigTree

Ficus elastica, the rubber fig, rubber bush, rubber tree, rubber plant, or Indian rubber bush, Indian rubber tree, or rambung is a species of flowering plant in the family Moraceae, native to eastern parts of South and Southeast Asia. It has become naturalized in Sri Lanka, the West Indies, and the US state of Florida. Its common names reflect its historical use as a source of rubber within its native range, but it is not used in the modern commercial-scale production of natural rubber.

FamilyMoraceae

GenusFicus

NativeAsia

LifespanLong-lived perennial

Signs Your Hibiscus Needs Repotting

Roots growing out

Rootbound

Roots appear from drainage holes.

Water drains too quickly

Dry

Soil no longer retains moisture.

Slowed growth

Stalled

Leaves become smaller or sparse.

Plant becomes top heavy

Unstable

Plant tips or becomes hard to balance.

Repotting Step-by-Step

Remove the plant

Step 1

Gently slide the plant out of the old pot.

Prune roots

Step 2

Trim circling roots and loosen the root ball.

Choose a pot

Step 3

Select a pot 1-2 inches wider.

Add fresh soil

Step 4

Use a rich, well-draining mix.

Plant and water

Step 5

Place, fill, water, and keep in shade.

TipObserve your plant regularly and adjust care according to your local climate and conditions.