The rubber tree (lat. Ficus elastica) is a species of plant that belongs to the fig genus (lat. Ficus). Large-leaved species are usually kept as houseplants. These are not particularly suitable as bonsai.
How do I grow a rubber tree as a bonsai?
A rubber tree bonsai should be grown from small-leaved varieties such as Ficus neriifolia. Shape the bonsai by cutting and wiring, use good bonsai soil, and repot every two to three years, lightly pruning roots.
It is better to choose a small-leaved species or a similar plant such as the oleander-leaved rubber tree (lat. Ficus neriifolia) or a fig. Make sure that the leaf size and growth form create a harmonious picture.
How do I shape a bonsai?
By cutting and wiring you can give your bonsai the shape and size you want. Regular pruning is necessary to prevent the bonsai from becoming bald. Always shorten the shoots to two to four leaves. You can also influence the thickness of the trunk. To do this, only cut off new shoots when the trunk is as thick as you would like it to be.
You have a variety of design options when wiring. The best time for this is the months of July and August. Remove the wire after six months at the latest, otherwise it will grow into the trunk. Sometimes this is desirable because it makes the wired branch or trunk thicker.
How do I care for a bonsai?
Give your oleander-leaved rubber tree good bonsai soil, which you can get from specialist retailers. In principle, the location and care requirements are the same as for a normally growing rubber tree. It likes it warm and bright and cannot tolerate waterlogging or drafts.
Do not water your rubber tree too much; it only needs fertilizer in small amounts. You should repot your rubber tree about every two to three years, ideally in the spring. For bonsai, take this opportunity to cut back the roots slightly.
The most important things in brief:
- Use small-leaved varieties or related plants
- shape by wiring and cutting
- use good bonsai soil
- repot about every two to three years
- cut the roots back slightly
Tip
You can grow an attractive bonsai from the oleander-leaved rubber tree. Large-leaved species are less suitable for this.
