Rubber Tree
The rubber tree is the easy-going cousin of the fussy fiddle-leaf fig — same upright ficus habit and glossy paddle leaves, far less drama. Give it bright indirect light and a consistent watering rhythm and it grows into a handsome indoor tree with very little fuss.
It likes routine: erratic watering and sudden moves are what trigger leaf drop. Wipe the broad leaves to keep them glossy and able to photosynthesise, and prune the top if you want it to branch rather than shoot straight up. The sap is mildly irritating, so wear gloves when you cut it.
Bright indirect light keeps it full; burgundy varieties need more light to hold their colour.
Water thoroughly and drain well
Low — keep to a consistent rhythm and don't let it dry out hard.
Milky sap is mildly toxic and can irritate skin; mild stomach upset if eaten by pets.
Water when the top inch of soil is dry
Feed with a balanced houseplant fertiliser
Wipe the leaves to keep them glossy
Prune the growing tip to encourage branching
Sudden leaf drop usually means erratic watering or a cold draft