PlantLight
Bright, indirect light with protection from harsh afternoon sun.
Your plant, a little better understood
Rubber plant
care guide.
Ficus elastica
Glossy oval leaves give this upright plant a sculptural look. Choose a stable spot with enough space for future growth.
Some attentionNot a pet-safe choice
Reviewed 12 October 2026 · Plantify
Get to the care basics ↓
A few things to get right.
Water
Let the surface mix dry before watering. Check conditions each time and reduce watering when growth slows.
Soil & drainage
A free-draining houseplant mix; never allow a decorative outer pot to hold excess water.
Growth & routine
An upright woody plant; gently wipe dusty leaves with a damp cloth.
What to watch for
Leaf drop can follow overwatering, cold drafts or sudden changes in position.
A small care habit
Leave some room around the foliage instead of squeezing a growing plant into a narrow corner.
Is this the same as a baby rubber plant?
No. Ficus elastica and Peperomia obtusifolia are different plants with different pet-safety classifications.