Rubber Fig—often known as the Ficus elastica, a popular indoor plant with glossy, large, dark green leaves. Let me break down a general description of the Ficus elastica for you!
Ficus elastica (Rubber Fig) Overview:
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Appearance: Rubber Figs have thick, leathery, dark green leaves that are oval or elliptical in shape. Some varieties can feature more colorful leaves with shades of purple, red, or variegation, like the “Tineke” variety (green with white and pinkish variegation). They can grow as large indoor plants or small trees, making them an excellent choice for home decor.
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Growth Habit: They can grow quite tall, with some reaching up to 8 feet (2.5 meters) in indoor environments, especially when given enough space. Outdoors, they can grow even larger.
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Care Requirements:
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some lower light conditions. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
- Watering: Rubber Figs are sensitive to overwatering. Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. Be sure to avoid letting the plant sit in water, as this can lead to root rot.
- Soil: Well-draining, potting soil is ideal. You can use a mix designed for indoor plants or add perlite to ensure drainage.
- Humidity: It enjoys higher humidity but will do fine in average household humidity levels. In dry environments, you can mist the leaves or use a humidity tray to boost moisture in the air.
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Common Issues:
- Yellowing Leaves: This is often due to overwatering, so ensure you’re allowing the soil to dry out a bit between waterings.
- Brown Edges on Leaves: This can be a sign of underwatering or exposure to cold drafts.
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