Rubber Plant

Ficus elastica

Family: MoraceaeOrigin: Southeast Asia: Nepal to China and Western Malesia

Houseplant
Fast growing
Large statement plant

Pet & Human Safety

People: Not researchedPets: Toxic to pets

Hazardous parts

Not yet checked.

Preparation

Not yet checked.

Hazard type

Not yet checked.

Hazard route

Not yet checked.

How complete this information is

We have not researched the safety of this plant yet.

Toxic to pets

NC State Extension's exact-species page confirms toxicity to cats, dogs, and horses but does not give a specific toxic principle or detailed clinical signs beyond the general 'problem' classification; the milky latex sap common to Ficus species is a typical contact and GI irritant mechanism, consistent with the sibling species Ficus lyrata (PlotAndPetal's separate entry), though not independently confirmed for elastica's own toxic principle.

Patent / trademark

not applicable

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Look-alike warning

Could be mistaken for ASPCA's page titled 'Indian Rubber Plant' (Ficus benjamina, weeping fig), even though 'Indian Rubber Plant' and 'Rubber Plant' are both legitimate common names for THIS species (Ficus elastica) per NC State. To tell them apart: No visual cue independently confirmed; check the botanical name: this guide relies on NC State Extension's own exact-species page rather than the mismatched ASPCA page.. Also unrelated: the much smaller Baby Rubber Plant / American Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia, PlotAndPetal's separate, non-toxic entry): don't conflate that plant with this one either.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

Get the app: coming soon

Care

Hardiness zones: 9a-12b (frost-tender; requires temperatures above 55°F).
Water needs: moderate regular watering in dry soil, reduced during fall-to-late-winter dormancy; avoid overwatering
Mature size: 2-10 ft tall as a houseplant (50-100 ft in native habitat); erect habit with a rounded crown, rapid growth rate.

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

Get the app: coming soon