Ficus elastica ‘Abidjan’ is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Its milky sap contains irritating compounds that can cause skin rashes, mouth irritation, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
Hello! I'm a
Ficus elastica, commonly known as the Rubber Plant, is a popular and attractive houseplant cherished for its glossy, broad leaves and air-purifying qualities.
Latin name
Ficus elastica
Pronunciation
(“Fy-kus ee-LAS-ti-kuh”)
Common name
Rubber Plant
Origin
Ficus elastica is native to southeastern Asia, particularly regions of India and Indonesia.
This resilient plant can be a striking addition to your indoor environment, and it’s relatively easy to care for.
caring for your plant
Light
Thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near a window with filtered sunlight or in a well-lit room where it can receive ample but indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate some shade, too little light can result in leggy growth and reduced leaf variegation.
Watering
Maintain moderately consistent soil moisture. Water when the top inch or so of the soil feels dry to the touch, typically every 1-2 weeks, depending on the season and humidity levels. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot, and ensure that the pot has good drainage.
Pruning
Pruning can help shape and maintain the appearance. Trim any leggy growth or dead/damaged leaves using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. To encourage bushier growth, pinch back the tips of new growth. Spring or early summer is an ideal time for pruning.
Feeding
Benefits from regular feeding during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength and apply it every 4-6 weeks. Reduce or eliminate fertilizer in the winter when the plant’s growth slows.
pest & diseases
Common pests include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Regularly inspect the plant, especially the undersides of leaves, for signs of infestation and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed. Additionally, maintain proper humidity levels to prevent dry indoor conditions that can attract pests.
Our plants are grown in Ecoponic, an alternative to soil. Officially known as a vulkaponic substrate, it replaces traditional compost with a clean, mineral-based medium that helps protect peatlands.
According to the IUCN UK Peatland Programme, “A loss of only 5% of UK peatland carbon would be equal to the UK’s annual greenhouse gas emissions.” As well as storing carbon, the natural wetlands where peat is found are critical to the survival of plants and wildlife. Ecoponic also improves plant health and uses water more efficiently.
Find out more about Ecoponic here.
Buy one of my cousins from the nursery
Plantopedia is brought to you as part of our Engage & Bloom workplace experience program.
explore more
Why not continue your journey through the plant world. Explore more plants, their stories, habitats and the benefits they bring to spaces.
