The familiar rubber tree is another fig, but one that is not at all graceful when grown as a houseplant. The leaves usually are spaced far apart along the stems, and are large, leathery and stiff.

The familiar rubber tree is another fig, but one that is not at all graceful when grown as a houseplant. The leaves usually are spaced far apart along the stems, and are large, leathery and stiff.

Or should I remove it and keep it in pots? Thank you. – David Guay The tree is most likely a Ficus elastica or rubber fig, based on the broad, glossy leaves and reddish-purple hue of the new growth.

Its common name of “rubber plant” or “rubber fig” comes from the milky white, sticky latex it contains. The species aside, various cultivated forms are available, including the smartly ...