Origin
The Ficus elastica Mix, better known as the rubber plant, has its origins in Southeast Asia. Naturally, this plant grows in rainforests from India to Indonesia. The plant belongs to the Moraceae family, also known as the mulberry family. The plant was brought to Europe in the nineteenth century and has since been popular as a houseplant.
Characteristics
A striking characteristic of the Ficus elastica Mix is its large, shiny leaves. These leaves can grow up to 30 centimetres in length. The colour of the leaves varies, but they often have dark green, light green or pink shades. The Ficus elastica Mix can grow into a sizable plant under the right conditions, with a height of up to four meters.
Care
The care of the Ficus elastica Mix requires the plant to be in a bright location, but not in direct sunlight. This can cause the leaves to burn. The plant needs regular watering, but too much water can cause root rot. It is recommended to fertilize the plant once every two weeks during the growing season. Humidity is also important; in an environment that's too dry, the leaf tips can turn brown.