Commonly known as: Multi-Stem Rubber Tree Robusta
Botanical name: Ficus Elastica Robusta
There is something very satisfying about a really good Rubber Tree Robusta. The foliage is simple but impressive – large, thick leaves with a rich deep-green colour and that unmistakable glossy finish.
With three stems growing together, this Robusta has a naturally full shape with foliage developing at different heights throughout the plant. As those stems mature and branch, it can become an impressively dense indoor tree.
Robusta is also a very straightforward Ficus to grow when you give it what it wants.
And what it wants most is light.
Put it close to a large window where it receives plenty of natural light. Once properly acclimatised, it will happily handle some direct sun too. Strong light keeps the stems sturdy, encourages larger leaves and produces much better growth.
Keep the watering consistent, feed regularly during active growth and clean those big leaves occasionally. With good conditions, you’ll often see new leaves emerging one after another through the warmer growing months.
Multi-Stem Rubber Tree Robusta Care Guide
Water – How often should I water my Multi-Stem Rubber Tree Robusta?
Water thoroughly once the upper section of the growing medium starts to dry, making sure excess water can drain freely from the pot.
Don’t keep the roots constantly wet, but don’t leave the plant bone dry for extended periods either. Consistent watering is the key with Ficus.
Rather check the growing medium with your finger than automatically watering on the same day every week.
Light – Where should I place my Rubber Tree Robusta?
Give it loads of natural light.
Close to a large, bright window is ideal. Once it has gradually acclimatised, Robusta can also take a few hours of direct sun and will generally grow very well for it.
Don’t hide it away in a dark corner. If growth slows dramatically, the spaces between leaves increase or the plant starts losing foliage, light is one of the first things I’d reassess.
Humidity – Does Rubber Tree Robusta need high humidity?
Normal household humidity is generally perfectly suitable.
I’d concentrate more on good airflow and clean foliage than trying to create artificially high humidity.
Those big glossy leaves collect plenty of dust. If practical, take the plant outside occasionally and give the foliage a thorough hose-down. It cleans the leaves beautifully and also helps keep spider mites under control.
Soil – What growing medium should I use?
Robusta likes a growing medium that drains well while still holding enough moisture to prevent the roots from drying too quickly.
I recommend Milled Bark Growing Medium. Adding some Perlite will increase drainage and airflow around the root system.
Avoid heavy mixes that compact around the roots and remain soggy for long periods.
Feeding – Should I fertilise my Rubber Tree Robusta?
Definitely. A well-fed Rubber Tree can put on a surprising amount of growth when it also has enough light.
Controlled Release Fertiliser is an easy way to provide balanced, consistent nutrition over time.
If you want to push strong, active growth, Novatec Soluble Fertiliser is an excellent option.
Repotting – When should I repot my Rubber Tree?
There’s no need to immediately move it into a larger pot.
Wait until the root system has properly filled its current container, then move up by one sensible pot size. A massive jump in pot size leaves too much growing medium sitting wet around the roots.
Spring and summer are particularly good times to repot while the plant is actively growing.
Pests – What pests should I watch for?
Keep an eye out for spider mites, scale and mealybugs.
Check underneath the leaves and around the points where leaves meet the stems. Because Robusta has such large foliage, pest problems are usually quite easy to spot when you inspect the plant regularly.
An occasional hose-down is one of the simplest preventative measures you can take.
Temperature – What temperatures does Rubber Tree Robusta prefer?
Normal warm household temperatures suit it very well.
Protect the plant from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes during winter. Growth will naturally slow as temperatures and light levels drop, so you’ll generally find that it needs less frequent watering during the colder months.
FAQ’s
Q: How quickly does Rubber Tree Robusta grow?
With strong natural light, regular feeding and good watering, Robusta can grow surprisingly quickly during the warmer months. New leaves emerge rolled tightly before opening into their full glossy form.
Q: Can Rubber Tree Robusta grow in direct sunlight?
Yes. Once gradually acclimatised, it can handle several hours of direct sun. Introduce stronger sunlight progressively to avoid scorching foliage that has previously grown under protected conditions.
Q: Can I prune my Rubber Tree Robusta?
Yes. Pruning is a great way to control its height and encourage branching. Cutting the growing tip of a stem can encourage new shoots to develop further down.
Q: Why is my Rubber Tree dropping leaves?
Check the light before assuming it needs more water. Move it closer to a large bright window and keep watering consistent. If leaf loss continues, a few days outside in bright, protected conditions, together with a thorough hose-down, can help get the plant actively growing again.
Q: What is the white liquid that comes from a cut stem or leaf?
Ficus produces a milky latex sap when damaged or pruned. This can irritate sensitive skin, so wash your hands after handling it and avoid getting the sap in your eyes.
Q: Is Rubber Tree Robusta pet safe?
No. The foliage and milky sap can cause irritation if eaten, so keep it away from pets that are inclined to chew plants.
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