As early as the 1950s and 1960s, the rubber tree was considered one of the most popular indoor plants. Nobody wanted to do without it. After that it fell into oblivion for a short time, but now it would like to decorate the apartments again with its striking leaves. In this article, we want to show you how best to care for your rubber tree and how you can propagate it without worrying, so that in addition to your large rubber tree you also have many small classic plants in your kingdom.
The tropical origin of the Ficus elastica
Originally, the rubber tree comes from far-off Asia. Myanmar, Java and Nepal is its natural home range. There it can even grow up to 40 m in height and its trunk can reach a diameter of 2 m. Since the light conditions in these regions are optimal for the rubber tree, it grows into a giant plant there.
It finally made its way to Europe in the 19th century and has become one of the most famous indoor plants. It owes its name to its use as a rubber material. The natural rubber it contains is used in Asia for rubber production.
The Ficus family
In addition to the most well-known variety Ficus elastica, there are also other types of plants that are used as houseplants:
- Ficus robusta
- Ficus tricolor
- Ficus doescheri
- Ficus variegata
All four species differ in their leaf coloration. Everything is there: From light to gray spots on the dark green leaves, the rubber tree shows its very diverse spot color variation.
Appearance of the rubber tree
The rubber tree scores with its simple, classic look. This allows it to adapt to the variety of apartments. Depending on the species, the height may vary, but of course it will not grow as tall as in nature. Its irregular trunk is well anchored in the ground by rib-like roots. It grows its distinctive dark green large leaves, which can grow up to 40 cm. The special thing about the leaves: The upper side of the leaf shines in a strong green while the underside of the leaf is partly reddish.
The gum tree blossom
Unfortunately, the rubber tree as a houseplant only rarely flowers. It can only be pollinated by the fig wasp, which is more common in tropical areas. As a result, seeds are formed and the whitish-yellow flowers appear. If the rubber tree forms fruits, these are small, yellowish-green and oval. However, these fruits, which belong to the figs, are inedible.
Care for your rubber tree properly
Even if you don't have a green thumb, the rubber tree is the perfect plant companion for you. It is very robust and easy to care for. If you are already convinced that you want to have this green beauty in your home, then simply go to our shop and conveniently order it for your home.
The right location
In order to be able to care for your rubber tree, it first needs the right location. It is best to place it in the brightest spot in your apartment, then it will be completely satisfied. Just like in its tropical homeland, it gets enough light. Due to its origin, it also copes well with warm temperatures. For this reason, the room temperature should never fall below 18 degrees. But make sure that the rubber tree is never exposed to the hot midday heat. He also likes dry heating air in winter.
Important: The lighting conditions must be optimal for the rubber tree, otherwise it will die.
Casting
Like all indoor plants, the rubber tree must be watered regularly. The same applies here: not too much and not too little! Proper watering behavior rounds off rubber tree care.
Tip: The rubber tree does not tolerate waterlogging at all. Therefore, only water your rubber tree when the top layer of soil has dried out. You can easily check whether your watering behavior is correct: Check whether water is collecting in the saucer. If so, then you have watered too much.
It is best to water your plant with stale, room-warm water, which is very welcome.
Cut to size
You can trim your rubber tree at any time if it gets too big for you, for example. You can't do much wrong here, as the plant is very pruning-friendly. The advantage of the cut stems: You can use them perfectly for further use as cuttings.
Grow your rubber tree
In order to be able to care for and propagate your rubber tree, there are two different methods of growing new small plants in your home. We want to show you these now:
1. Method: Pull your cuttings This method is best for spring. Let the juice from the separated shoots drain well. Then place the cutting in a glass of water. Normally it develops its roots after 2-3 months. When enough roots have grown, you can transplant the plant into a suitable pot. Method 2: Seeds are the basis With this method, it's important to use seed soil for the seeds, as this soil has fewer nutrients, which the rubber tree prefers. Simply scatter the seeds in the soil. You cover them with a thin layer of soil. You should water the seeds regularly to fuel their growth. As soon as the first leaves appear, the plants can be transplanted into their own pot. Since the rubber tree is slightly poisonous, you should be careful that your dog or cat does not necessarily nibble on the green leaves. Excessive consumption can lead to diarrhea, vomiting and inflammation of the mucous membranes. Tip: Just put your gum tree out of reach of your pets. If they do bite him and you're worried about your pet's health, see a veterinarian. Your rubber tree no longer has its beautiful juicy large leaves, but on the contrary, it loses them? Instead of the green color, the leaves turn yellowish? Then something is definitely wrong, because caring for your rubber tree also means checking it for pest infestation. Improper care or an unfavorable location can easily infect it with diseases. Here are the most common diseases: Spider mites develop when the plant has been exposed to a very long dry period. The best known here is the red spider mite, which likes to multiply on the rubber tree. You can recognize the mite very well by the fine cobwebs between the branch and leaf forks. Tip: By spraying your plant with lime-free water from time to time, you can very well prevent the infestation of spider mites.If you have already discovered spider mites, you should carefully shower the plant with lukewarm water. Thoroughly clean the underside and top of the leaves. Unfortunately, your rubber tree is often infested by 0.5 cm wool lice. If this is the case, the leaves of the plant will dry up very quickly and also turn slightly yellow. Tip: Spray your rubber tree with neem oil. This special oil is extracted from the seeds of the neem tree and helps fight mealybugs. If you have now decided to buy a rubber tree, then a little more care won't hurt it either. If the leaves are covered with dust, it is best to wipe them off regularly with a damp cloth. The rubber tree thanks you with a wonderful dark green leaf decoration. Alternatively, you can also put it in the bathtub and carefully shower off. So you don't have to have a "green thumb" to have this simple beauty in your home. You only have to do one thing now: bring the plant to your home! We hope that these little instructions and tips will help you to care for and propagate your rubber tree.
Is my rubber tree poisonous to dogs or cats?
Infestation
(Red) spider mites
Mealy lice
The rubber tree at your home
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