A South Asian fig tree grown indoors for its large glossy leathery leaves, an icon of mid-century interior design and a classic forgiving houseplant.
Description
Rubber plant has thick, glossy, oval leaves up to 30 centimetres long, often deep green but bred in burgundy and variegated forms. New leaves unfurl from rosy sheaths.
Cultivation
It prefers bright filtered light, well-drained soil, and moderate watering. Tolerant of less-than-ideal conditions, rubber plant returns the favor of consistent care with steady growth.
Uses
The original commercial source of latex was a related Brazilian rubber tree, but Ficus elastica was once tapped for rubber too. Today it is one of the most photogenic statement houseplants.