Ficus elastica: Complete guide to care, problems, and maintenance

The ficus elastica, also known as the rubber tree, is one of the most popular and resilient indoor plants, perfect for both beginners and those looking to fill their homes with a more natural and elegant touch. This species, native to tropical Asia, stands out for its great adaptability, rapid growth and its spectacular shiny leaves. If you want to discover in depth How to care for ficus elastica and have a healthy and spectacular plant for years, we present the most detailed and up-to-date guide you will find.

What is the Ficus elastica? Characteristics and interesting facts

The ficus elastica is known by various names, such as rubber tree, rubber fig tree or simply gumIn its natural habitat it can reach between 20 and 30 meters high, even reaching 60 meters in ideal conditions, and presents a irregular trunk which can grow to over 2 meters in thickness. However, when grown in pots and indoors, it rarely grows larger than 2 meters, although it can easily reach 3 or XNUMX meters with sufficient space and care.

Its large, oval, thick leaves They are an intense dark green and shiny color on the upper side, and lighter on the underside, although there are varieties with yellow, white, or even pink margins, like 'Tineke' and 'Ruby'. These leaves can grow to over 30 centimeters in length, making them a very ornamental and striking plant.

A special feature of the ficus elastica is its milky sap, which is used in rubber production, although it is not the main commercial source of rubber. This sap can be a skin irritant and toxic if ingested, so it should be handled with care, especially if there are any in the home. pets or small children.

The ficus elastica is of rapid growth Under optimal conditions, and although not commonly grown in domestic cultivation, it can produce fig-like fruit, but with no edible value. In decoration, it is often seen pruned to control its height and maintain a more bushy and compact shape.

Essential care of the ficus elastica

Success in growing ficus elastica depends on understanding its growing needs. Light, temperature, irrigation, humidity, substrate and fertilizationAlthough it is a very resistant plant, offer it the proper care will enhance its growth and beauty.

Optimal location and lighting

Ficus elastica is an adaptable plant, able to thrive both indoors and outdoors, as long as the environmental conditions are favorable. The key is in the lighting:

• Prefers abundant and bright, but indirect lightIdeally, place it near windows with light curtains that filter the sun.
• Outdoors, can tolerate mild direct sun (morning or late afternoon), but intense midday sun should be avoided, especially in summer, to prevent leaf burn.
• In dimly lit environments, can survive, but will grow more slowly and with small leaves; in addition, the leaf arrangement may become haphazard.
• Variegated varieties, such as 'Tineke', require even more indirect light to maintain their vibrant colors and prevent them from turning green.

To achieve uniform growth, it is advisable turn the pot periodically so that all leaves receive the same amount of light, preventing the plant from leaning in one direction.

Temperature and climatology

The ficus elastica prefers warm temperatures and stable environments, since sudden changes can negatively affect her. Her preferences are:

• Ideal temperature between 16 and 24 ºC, adapting well to tropical and Mediterranean climates. It can occasionally tolerate slightly lower temperatures (up to 10-12 ºC), but should never be exposed to frost.
• It does not tolerate intense cold or drafts., which cause leaf fall and promote the appearance of diseases.
• Avoid placing it near artificial heat sources, such as radiators or air conditioners, which dry out the environment too much and can cause the leaves to wilt.

During the colder seasons or when changing location (from outdoors to indoors), it is advisable to acclimatize the ficus gradually to minimize stress, especially during the first year after purchase or transplant.

Watering and humidity: frequency and tips

Irrigation is one of the cares to which more attention must be paid, since the ficus elastica tolerates drought better than excess waterThe substrate must be slightly damp, never waterloggedThe basic recommendations are:

• Water only when the top layer of soil is completely dry., inserting a finger to check it or using a moisture meter.
• En summer, it is usual to water once a week, reducing the frequency to every 10-14 days in winter, taking into account the humidity and ambient temperature.
• It is preferable falling short is better than going too far in irrigation to prevent root rot.
• Yellow leaves and falling old leaves usually indicate excess water., while wilted leaves are usually a sign of dryness.

As for humidity, the ficus is moderately tolerant and doesn't require regular misting. However, in very dry climates or during winters with heating, it may appreciate misting the leaves with lukewarm water once or twice a week. It's also helpful to place a saucer of pebbles and water near the pot or group several plants together to increase humidity.

If you overwater and notice that the substrate is soaked, Remove the plant from the pot, remove the wet substrate and change it to a dry and aerated substrate.This can save the plant and prevent root rot.

Substrate, pot and transplant

The ficus elastica It is not demanding with the type of substrate, but to achieve vigorous growth and shiny leaves, it is advisable to use a aerated soil, rich in nutrients and with excellent drainage:

• Mixture peat, coconut fiber and perlite or vermiculite to optimize water retention and prevent waterlogging.
• Another option is to use universal soil mixed with coarse sand or gravel to promote drainage.
• The contribution of compost, worm humus or organic fertilizer in small amounts will improve available nutrients.
• The pot must have efficient drainage to remove excess water, it is advisable to include a layer of gravel at the bottom.

Transplanting is done when the roots emerge from the holes in the pot or the plant slows its growth. This generally occurs every two to three years. The best time to repot is early spring.

Fertilization and fertilization

To encourage robust growth and keep the leaves healthy and shiny, the ficus elastica will appreciate a moderate subscriber:

• Fertilize once a month in spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer for green plants, diluting it in the irrigation water.
• Avoid fertilizing in autumn and winter, when the plant goes dormant.
• If the plant shows signs of weakness, you can fertilize every three weeks, always without exceeding the dosage recommended by the manufacturer.
• Do not fertilize the first months after transplantation, to avoid root burns.

Excess fertilizer can cause leaf burn and weaken the plant, while a lack of nutrients can manifest as a pale color or loss of vigor.

Pruning and maintaining shape

Although It is not essential to prune the ficus elastica Regular pruning helps to:

• Control its size and encourage a bushier appearance.
• Remove dry, diseased or damaged leaves and branches.
• Promote branching and renew its appearance.

Ideally prune in spring or summer, when growth is most active. To do this:

1. Use clean, sharp scissors.
2. Remove dead or diseased branches and leaves by making clean cuts.
3. You can pinch off young shoots to stimulate the emergence of new branches.
4. Wear gloves if you are sensitive, as the milky sap can irritate your skin.

After pruning, it's normal for the plant to ooze sap; you can stop the flow by placing a little vegetable ash or powdered charcoal on the cut.

Propagation of Ficus elastica

Multiplying your ficus elastica is simple by stem cuttingsThe best time is in spring. Follow these steps:

1. Select a healthy stem with at least two leaves.
2. Cut below a leaf node, use a clean blade.
3. Place the cutting in water or directly into a moist, aerated substrate.
4. Keep the cutting in warm, indirect light, changing the water every few days if using this method.
5. In a few days or weeks, it will sprout roots and you can transplant it into a permanent pot.

The success rate is high if optimal heat and humidity conditions are maintained, and propagation is inexpensive and easy to expand your collection.

Most common pests and diseases

Although the ficus elastica is resistant, it can be affected by plagues and diseases if conditions are not suitable:

• Red spider: It thrives in dry, warm environments and sucks sap, weakening the leaves. It is combated by increasing humidity and using specific insecticides.
• Cochineal: Attaches to stems and leaves, forming small white or brown lumps; remove manually and use insecticides or soapy water.
• Aphids: Less common, but can appear on new shoots; they are removed with soapy water or organic insecticides.
• Fungi and root rot: caused by excess humidity or watering, detectable by leaf spots or root rot.

Diseases appear most frequently due to:

• Low light: drooping, weak, pale leaves. Solution: move to a brighter location.
• Excess of water: produces rotten roots, yellow leaves and leaf fall.
• Inadequate substrate: Color change and massive leaf drop. Use quality substrate and ensure good drainage.

Other maintenance tips

• Leaf cleaning: Periodically wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis. Do not use commercial polishes; just use water.
• Beware of drafts: Place the ficus away from doors or windows where there are cold or hot drafts.
• Support and tutoring: Due to the weight of the leaves and the flexibility of the branches, it is advisable to use tutors to maintain verticality and prevent the branches from breaking.
• ToxicityFicus elastica is toxic if ingested and can cause digestive upset in pets and children. Keep the plant out of their reach.

This plant purifies the air, eliminating toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene, making it ideal for homes and offices to improve environmental quality.

Common problems and how to prevent them

1. Yellow and soft leaves: Overwatering. Let the substrate dry out and adjust the watering frequency.
2. Fall of leaves: It may be due to sudden changes in temperature, lack of light or recent relocation.
3. Leaf wilting: It usually indicates a lack of irrigation or a very dry environment.
4. White spots on leaves: Characteristic of the ficus, it is not a cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms.

Transplant and adaptation

After purchasing a ficus elastica, it's a good idea to observe it for the first few days. If the potting soil is dry, water it sparingly; if it's wet, let it dry before watering again. Don't repot immediately after purchase; give the plant a few weeks to acclimate to its new environment. Repotting is only necessary when the roots emerge from the holes in the pot.

The ficus elastica is one of the most durable and rewarding plants you can enjoy at home or in the office. With the proper care, can live between 15 and 20 years or even more, remaining vigorous, decorative and healthy. light needs, moderate watering, stable temperatures and pruning occasions They will keep your foliage looking bright and spectacular. Plus, thanks to their purifying properties, they contribute to a healthier and more comfortable indoor environment.