Yes, you can plant your rubber plant in the ground provided you are in zones 10-11. Landscapers often use these plants for ornamental plantings along streets, in highway medians, and around pool areas. Rubber plants are susceptible to frosts and cold temperatures. They also have weak wood causing them to break easily under heavy rain, ice, and winds. Planting them outdoors puts them at risk of powdery mildew, and other diseases and pests.