Baby rubber plant problems — and how to fix them

By far the most common problem. Soggy compost and the fleshy stem rotting at the soil line are classic signs. Always let the top layer dry out, use free-draining mix and a drained pot, and water less in winter.

Stretched stems with widely spaced, smaller leaves mean too little light; variegated cultivars also lose their cream patterning in dim spots. Move to brighter indirect light and pinch tips to encourage bushiness.

Corky or brown blotches on the undersides often signal oedema, where roots take up water faster than leaves can transpire it, usually from overwatering in low light. Concentric brown rings instead suggest incurable ring-spot virus, in which case discard the plant.

Spider mites (in dry heat), mealybugs and the occasional thrips can attack. Inspect leaf joints and undersides, wipe off small infestations, and treat persistent ones with insecticidal soap or neem.