Baby rubber plant care: watering, light and repotting
Also called peperomia, pepper face · Peperomia obtusifolia · Piperaceae family
16 d in winter
How often to water the baby rubber plant?
Allow about 9 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 16 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
A small plant with fleshy leaves that forgives forgetfulness. Prefers a small pot.
What light does it need?
The baby rubber plant likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 3 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 45 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 8–12 in (20–30 cm).
Safe for cats and dogs, according to the ASPCA.
Common problems
Soft stem at the base
Cause: Too much water. What to do: Let it dry out and repot in free-draining mix.
Leaves dropping in winter
Cause: Cold or too much water. What to do: Keep it above 59 °F (15 °C) and water less.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the baby rubber plant?
About every 9 days in spring and summer, and every 16 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the baby rubber plant?
The baby rubber plant likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the baby rubber plant?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the baby rubber plant?
Every 3 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the baby rubber plant safe?
The baby rubber plant is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. A pet that eats a lot of it may still vomit, so it's best not to let it nibble.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Yes: the baby rubber plant forgives a missed watering and adapts well to the home. A good plant to start with.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.