Ficus elastica
TAXONOMY
FamilyMoraceae
GenusFicus
Zone10
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Ficus elastica, commonly known as the Rubber Plant, is a popular ornamental tree native to Southeast Asia. It is known for its large, glossy leaves and can grow quite tall in its natural habitat. The plant thrives in wet tropical climates and is often grown indoors in temperate regions. It belongs to the Moraceae family and the Ficus genus.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Indian Rubberplant
Rubber Bush
Rubber Fig
Rubberplant
Rubber Tree
Stilpnophyllum Elasticum
Urostigma Circumscissum
Urostigma Elasticum
Urostigma Odoratum
Ficus clusiifolia
Ficus cordata
Ficus elastica var. belgica
Ficus elastica var. benghalensis
Ficus elastica var. decora
Ficus elastica var. karet
Ficus elastica var. minor
Ficus elastica var. odorata
Ficus elastica var. rubra
Ficus skytinodermis
Ficus taeda
Macrophthalma elastica
Urostigma karet
Visiania elastica
OVERVIEW
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature24° C
Humidity60%
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
The Rubber Plant prefers bright, indirect light and should be kept in moderate temperatures. It thrives in high humidity and should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight as this can scorch the leaves.Soil
Ficus elastica prefers well-draining loamy soil. A mix of potting soil, peat, and perlite works well. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Reduce feeding during the winter months.Repotting
Repot the Rubber Plant every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a pot that is one size larger and ensure it has good drainage. Repotting is best done in the spring.Propagation
Propagate Ficus elastica through stem cuttings. Take a cutting with at least one leaf and a node, and place it in water or moist soil. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment until roots develop.Pruning
Prune the Rubber Plant to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged leaves. Pruning can be done throughout the year, but it's best to do major pruning in the spring.Toxicity
Ficus elastica is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The sap can cause skin irritation, so handle the plant with care and keep it out of reach of children and pets.Additional
To encourage bushier growth, pinch off the tips of the plant. Regularly clean the leaves to remove dust and improve photosynthesis. The Rubber Plant can also benefit from occasional misting to increase humidity.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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