Rubber-bearing ficus is an evergreen tree that reaches a height of 30-40 meters. The leaves are alternate, oval with a sharp tip, leathery, shiny, up to 20-30 cm in length and 10-20 in width. Young leaves have a pinkish-brownish color, old — dark green. The fruits are small, yellow-green, oval in shape, reaching a diameter of 1 cm. The barrel contains up to 15% rubber.
Ficus Elastica Schrijveriana Care
ficus elastica shivereana
Other names: Ficus Shivereana



How to Care for the Plant

Water

Water your rubber plant frequently—they like to be kept steadily moist but not soaked. Rubber plants also are vulnerable to excessive dryness and don't tolerate drought well. To check if its time for another watering, check the moisture levels in the first few inches of soil—if they're dry and crumbly, it's time to water your plant again.

Pruning

Rubber tree plants are quite resilient and rubber tree trimming can basically take place any time of the year. In fact, branches that are out of sorts can be removed without any damage to the plant.

Fertilizer

Feed the plant a weak liquid fertilizer throughout the growing season. They are relatively heavy feeders when healthy. Some experts recommend only lightly fertilizing indoor plants to prevent stretching and plants becoming root-bound because they grow too fast.

Sunlight

If you notice the leaves fading place it in a little more light.

Soil

A well-draining and well-aerated potting soil is needed. 1 part peat, 1 part pine bark and 1 part coarse sand (or perlite) is a good mix. Re-Potting: From May - June re-pot once the roots have become pot bound or every year when the plants are very young, and then once every 3 years after the plant has matured.

Temperature

Temperature: Average room temperatures of 60 - 75°F (15 - 24°C are fine. Avoid lower than 55°F (12°C), sudden temperature drops and cold drafts.

Additional

While it's true that Rubber Tree plants are considered to be "toxic," they are only mildly so and are still great plants to add to your home.

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