A: Study the shape of the rubber tree (Ficus elastica) to determine where to prune to shape the plant. In early spring, remove up to 1/3 overall if necessary. Shorten overly long branches.

You might want to prune your rubber plant if you’ve noticed any dead or damaged leaves. The same can be said if it is starting to grow slightly out of control or could do with some shaping.

Most rubber trees are propagated by stem cuttings. When you buy a new rubber tree, you’ll often find a partially buried leaf at the base of the plant where the cutting took place.