Rubber Plant Leaf Spots: Aging, Not Pests

Rubber Plant Leaf Spots: Aging, Not Pests

A 5-foot rubber plant (Ficus elastica), rescued from a grocery store 3 years ago, has large white/yellowish-brown spots and holes on a few older leaves. No stickiness or webs underneath. Owner sprayed with castile soap. Plant is spindly, needs bamboo stakes, but has new shoots on every branch.

Diagnosis

The spots are normal aging on older leaves, not spider mites or disease. Rubber plants are highly mite-resistant.

Why It’s Spindly

Insufficient light. In brighter light, stems thicken and support themselves; the plant holds more leaves and loses fewer older ones.

Fixes

• Move to the brightest possible indoor spot (direct sun is fine).
• Remove unsightly blemished leaves if desired—no harm.
• No pesticide needed.

For rubber plant care or spider mite guides, email wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com.