Ficus Elastiaca Ruby

Botanical Name and Family
Botanical Name: Ficus elastica Ruby
Family: Moraceae

Botanical Characteristics
Height: Typically grows to about 3-6 feet (90-180 cm) indoors, but can reach up to 10-12 feet (3-4 meters) or more in its natural habitat.
Shape: Upright and bushy, with a tree-like or shrub-like growth habit. It can be grown as a single-stemmed tree or a multi-stemmed shrub.
Leaves: Large, glossy, and leathery, with a striking variegation pattern. The ‘Ruby’ variety features dark green leaves with vibrant, contrasting shades of pink, red, and sometimes cream. The variegation can be more pronounced on newer growth.
Stems: Woody and robust, supporting the large foliage. The stems are often reddish or brownish.
Flowers: Rarely flowers indoors. In its native tropical habitat, it produces small, inconspicuous flowers with a spathe and spadix structure.
Fruits: Produces small fig-like fruits in its native environment, but fruiting is uncommon indoors.

Natural Habitat
Native Range: Native to Southeast Asia, including parts of India, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It thrives in tropical rainforests, where it grows as an understory tree or shrub.

Growth Requirements
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate lower light conditions, but its vibrant colors may become less pronounced, and growth may slow. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Water: Requires regular watering. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Soil: Prefers well-draining, loamy potting mix. A mix of peat, perlite, and compost or bark is ideal.
Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C) and cold drafts.

Cultivation Methods
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. Ensure pots have good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering: Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture in the soil. Avoid overwatering and ensure the top inch of soil dries out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Lighting: Provide bright, indirect light to maintain vibrant foliage color. Lower light conditions can lead to slower growth and less intense leaf coloration.

Care Recommendations
Propagation: Propagate through stem cuttings. Use a rooting hormone and place cuttings in a moist, well-draining medium. Keep cuttings in a warm, humid environment until roots develop.
Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in winter.
Pests and Diseases: Watch for pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Inspect the plant regularly and address infestations promptly. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.

Special Contents
Toxicity: Contains latex, which can be mildly toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Various Uses
Applications: Popular as an ornamental houseplant for its attractive, colorful foliage and easy care. Ideal for indoor settings, bright rooms, and offices.

Challenges and Limitations
Issues: Can become leggy if not provided with adequate light. Overwatering can cause root rot, and sensitivity to cold temperatures and drafts can affect overall health. The plant’s latex content can cause mild toxicity, so caution is needed around pets and children.