Rubber plant (Ficus elastica) is a species of fig tree in the family Moraceae. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, and is also widely cultivated in other regions. The species is also known by its common names rubber fig, rubber tree, rubber bush, and Indian rubber tree.
It is a large evergreen tree, growing to 20–30 m tall, with a dense, spreading crown. The leaves are large, glossy, dark green, and leathery, with a prominent midrib. The flowers are small, yellow-green, and borne in clusters. The fruit is a small, fleshy, greenish-yellow drupe.
Ficus elastica is a popular houseplant, grown for its attractive foliage. It is also used in traditional medicine and as a source of rubber. The tree has a milky latex sap which is harvested for use as rubber. The sap is also used in traditional medicine, and as a food additive.
The latex sap of Ficus elastica contains compounds with potential medicinal properties, including flavonoids, saponins, and tannins. These compounds have been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activity.
Benefits:
-Grown for its attractive foliage
-Used as a source of rubber
-Used in traditional medicine
-Has compounds with potential medicinal properties
-Can help with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activity
How to care:
-Place in a bright spot, but out of direct sunlight
-Water when the soil is dry to the touch
-Fertilize monthly during the growing season
-Prune to shape as needed
Water requirement:
Rubber plant (Ficus Elastica) does not like to be waterlogged, so make sure the pot has drainage holes. Water when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Allow the plant to dry out slightly between waterings.
Ideal temperature:
Ficus Elastica prefers average to warm room temperatures of 18°C-29°C.
Toxicity:
The sap of the Ficus Elastica plant contains latex. If ingested, it can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea. The sap can also be an irritant to the skin and eyes.
Type of Soil:
Ficus Elastica prefers a well-draining potting mix. You can use a commercial potting mix or make your own by mixing equal parts perlite, vermiculite, and peat moss.
 Propagation:
Ficus Elastica can be propagated from stem cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Water the cutting and place in a bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist and wait for new growth to appear.
Pest and Disease:
Ficus Elastica is susceptible to mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can cause leaf drop and stunted growth. Treat infestations with an appropriate insecticide.
Ficus Elastica is also susceptible to root rot and leaf spot. Root rot is caused by too much water and can be fatal to the plant. Leaf spot is caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens and can be treated with a fungicide or bactericide.
Landscape uses:
Ficus Elastica can be used as a specimen plant, accent plant, or hedge. It can also be grown in containers.