Propagating Ficus (Rubber Plant)

From the bold Ficus Robusta to the elegant Ficus Lyrata – ficus plants are true classics. And the good news? They're surprisingly easy to propagate. You just need a bit of patience.

Ready to give it a go? Here’s how to propagate your ficus step by step.

Rinse your knife or scissors with hot water and soap. Then disinfect with alcohol to remove any bacteria or fungi. This keeps your cutting healthy.

Cut a stem with at least two leaves.

• For water propagation: choose a cutting with two to four leaves.

• For soil propagation: stick to two leaves max.

Pick your method and get your materials ready.

You might notice white sap coming from the plant. Gently blot this with kitchen paper.
If you have rooting powder, now’s the time to apply it and let it dry. It can help but isn’t essential.

• In water: place the cutting in a glass or vase.

• In soil: plant the cutting in fresh potting soil and cover it loosely with a plastic bag. This keeps the humidity high and prevents the leaves from drying out.

Mist the leaves regularly with a spray bottle.

• In water: once the roots are 5–10 cm long, you can transfer the cutting to soil.

• In soil: keep the soil slightly moist. If the cutting feels firm when you tug gently, roots have likely formed. You can then remove the bag.

• When: best done in spring or summer
• Light: bright but indirect sunlight
• Humidity: especially important for soil cuttings
• Sap: normal for ficus, just wipe it off
• Tip: use a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse

Yes, most types – like Ficus elastica, Ficus lyrata, and Ficus benjamina – propagate well using this method.

These tips are based on our own experience with propagating. All methods are tested in our plant nursery and work well for beginners too.

Want to explore more propagation tips? Check out our other step-by-step plant guides.