The rubber plant, also known as Ficus Elastica and Ficus Abidjan, is gorgeous because of its large and lush leaves. It’s one of the first plants I got myself and I loved it ever since. It’s a great statement piece for any kind of interior and is easy to take care of. Since the day I got myself a rubber plant, my home felt much more alive and I believe it’s all because of this fellow.

Rubber plant care guide

• The rubber plant thrives in warm temperature, 15-24°C is the most suitable for it. However, the temperature shouldn’t be lower than 12°C.
• Keep the plant in a bright place but not in direct sunlight.
• The rubber plant should be watered once the soil is dry on the top. However, the pot must have sufficient drainage holes, another way the roots might have too much water. It is also important to not overwater it.
• The soil for this plant should be a well-aerated mixture, here’s how to do it: 1 part peat, 1 part pine bark and 1 part perlite or coarse sand.
• Fertilizer should be used during spring and summer, every two weeks.
• A young plant should be repotted once a year, on May – June. A mature plant should be repotted every three years or when the pot is too small for it. It is recommended to change the soil once a year.
• Normal room humidity is perfect for the plant. However, if the room is dry or the temperature is higher than the plant needs, then you can mist the leaves with water.
• Leaves should be cleaned from time to time with lukewarm water by gently applying a very soft cloth or a sponge.

This is it, the rubber plant is easy to grow and doesn’t require too much time. Simply keep it in a bright spot away from sunlight, water it when the soil gets dry and clean the leaves. Easy to take care of and makes your home (and you too) feel special!