Ficus elastica
Thick, glossy, dark green (or burgundy) leaves on a sturdy upright stem. More forgiving than its cousin the fiddle leaf fig.
⚠️ Toxic to pets and people if ingested — keep out of reach.
Dropped lower leaves are often a response to overwatering or a sudden temperature swing near a draft or vent. Dust buildup on the large leaves blocks light and can dull their signature glossy look — wipe them down every few weeks.
Take a stem cutting with at least one leaf, let the cut end callus for a few hours, then root it in water or moist soil; rooting hormone speeds this up considerably.
Repot every 1-2 years in spring — rubber plants grow quickly when happy and appreciate the extra room before becoming noticeably root-bound.