table of contents
- How much light
- The right temperature
- Outdoor locations
- Unfavorable locations
- frequently asked Questions
The rubber tree is a classic among indoor plants and is particularly noticeable for its leaf decoration. Its popularity has remained unbroken for years. However, he also makes demands on the care. The rubber tree prefers this location.
In a nutshell
- Rubber tree (Ficus elastica) needs a light location
- the more light-colored leaf parts, the higher the light requirement
- Beware of the blazing midday sun
- In addition to light, temperatures are also decisive
- Temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius can damage ficus
How much light
In general, the rubber tree is best in bright and warm places, although it also tolerates partially shaded ones. It just shouldn't be too dark. the Light intensity varies depending on the species, because there is also the rubber tree with variegated leaves. Exactly these need more light than pure green varieties.
But none of them can stand the blazing midday sun. It would burn the leaves that are in
brown leaf spots to express. You should also protect your rubber tree from drafts. If he lets the leaves hang, it can also be due to too much light and heat. So you should find a good mediocrity so that this plant feels completely comfortable.
Tip: It is best to place this stately plant in front of a window facing east or west.
The right temperature
The rubber tree feels most comfortable in a warm location. Accordingly, the Room temperatures between 18 and 20 degrees, ideally between 20 and 25 degrees. During the Winter months it can easily stand a little cooler, but it is not winter hardy. Temperatures between 12 and 15 degrees are then usually not a problem. It shouldn't be colder than ten degrees, as this could damage the plant. In addition, large temperature fluctuations should be avoided.
Outdoor locations
Even if the Ficus elastica cannot tolerate frost, it can easily stand outside during the summer. You should definitely wait for the ice saints. Better to wait a little longer than risk cold damage.
- night temperatures should no longer drop below ten degrees
- A short acclimatization phase is nevertheless recommended
- Slowly accustom the plant to new conditions
- initially only put it out during the day
- bring them back into the house in the evening
- initially rather place in partial shade
- little by little a little sunnier
- sunny location for rubber tree not during lunchtime
- bring them back into the house in the fall
- as soon as night temperatures approach ten degrees
Unfavorable locations
The light requirements of this attractive houseplant should not be underestimated, because it can only grow densely and well branched if there is sufficient light. Even if the green-leaved varieties in particular tolerate light shade, they should by no means be too dark. Otherwise it can happen that they are yours Shedding leaves. With variegated varieties, the color suffers, the light areas are usually completely lost.
Tip: Of course, a good location for the rubber tree also includes the nature of the substrate. This can, for example, be good green or house plant soil, mixed in with some sand or expanded clay for better structure and permeability.
frequently asked Questions
Blossoms are rare and inconspicuous when kept in a room. Under optimal conditions and with a lot of luck, however, the rubber tree can be brought to bloom. However, this can happen after about 40 years at the earliest, because that is how long it needs to bloom for the first time.
Depending on the location, variety, pot size and care, the rubber tree can grow up to 200 cm.
The rubber tree can stand in bright, light-flooded and warm bedrooms, especially since it filters toxins such as formaldehyde from the air. Often the bedroom is too cool and the light output is too low. Especially in winter and with the window open. Then it is not suitable as a permanent installation site.
