Rubber Plant Variegated

Description

1. Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Ficus elastica variegata

• Common Names: Variegated Rubber Plant, Variegated Ficus

• Family: Moraceae

• Type: Evergreen ornamental plant

2. Origin & Distribution

• Native to Southeast Asia, particularly India, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

• Widely grown worldwide as an ornamental indoor and outdoor plant.

• Popular in tropical and subtropical regions for both landscaping and interior décor.

3. Physical Characteristics

• Height & Spread: Can reach 6–10 feet indoors; up to 30 feet outdoors in tropical climates.

• Leaves: Large, glossy, oval-shaped leaves with green centers, creamy-white, and yellow variegation.

• Trunk & Branches: Thick, woody stem with upright growth habit.

• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy, and can be pruned to maintain compact shape.

4. Growing Conditions

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; too much direct sunlight may scorch leaves, while low light reduces variegation.

• Soil: Well-draining, fertile potting mix with good aeration.

• Watering: Moderate; water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. Avoid waterlogging.

• Temperature: Thrives between 18°C–28°C; sensitive to frost.

• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity; occasional misting is beneficial.

5. Maintenance & Care

• Pruning: Regular pruning encourages bushy growth and maintains shape.

• Fertilization: Feed monthly during growing season (spring–summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

• Pests/Diseases: May be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, or scale insects if not cared for properly.

• Propagation: Commonly propagated through stem cuttings or air layering.

6. Uses & Benefits

• Air Purification: Removes toxins like formaldehyde, making indoor air healthier.

• Aesthetic Value: Adds a luxurious, tropical, and modern touch to interiors.

• Cultural Beliefs: In some cultures, considered a symbol of abundance, good fortune, and resilience.

• Landscape Plant: Used in gardens, patios, and indoor plant décor.

7. Lifespan

• Long-living plant; with proper care, can thrive for 10–20 years indoors and much longer outdoors in suitable climates.