Ficus elastica, also known as the rubber plant, make great ornamental houseplant. This unusual-looking plant from the tropics of Southeast Asia has huge, soft leaves and an exotic name.
Being one of the best air-filtering plants available and low-maintenance, is a great plant to add lush, tropical foliage to your interior spaces.
Varieties
Robusta - a modern variety that is very close to the original species in appearance, but with leaves that are wider and more glossy.
Abidjan - stands out with its rich tones of bronze and burgundy leaf colour.
Tineke - fabulous green leaves with a white soft pink margin.
PLANT CARE
- Light: bright, filtered light and can tolerate morning sun. Plants that do not receive sufficient light will become leggy, lose their lower leaves, and the leaf colour will become dull instead of glossy and vibrant.
- Water frequently. This plant needs to be kept steadily moist but not wet. It is vulnerable to excessive dryness. Avoid water sitting at the bottom of its pot as it can lead to root rot.
Not edible. Toxic if accidentally ingested.