Scientific Name Ficus elastica (springy fig) 'Robusta' (robust, hardy)
Common Name India Rubber Plant/ Tree/ Fig, Rubber Fig, Rubber Bush
Origin Native to Asia, from the Himalayas to Malaysia, Sumatra and Java
Description The Ficus elastica grows like a miniature tree, with its broad leaves branching off a central stem. The 'Robusta' has wider, thicker leaves than other cultivars of the species, making it actually more robust to changes in environment. Its broad, glossy green leaves will therefore add greenery to your home without needing too much fuss to maintain, and as an added bonus leave you with cleaner air! Just make sure you don't water them too much. Light Thrives in bright, indirect light; lower light means a higher risk of overwatering, leading to root rot, so keep an eye out if it's in a shadier spot! Water Allow the top half of the soil to dry out between watering; the pot will also be lighter at this point. Reduce even further in winter as the water will evaporate less.
Humidity Likes high humidity; your plant will appreciate a mist or the addition of a humidity tray! Soil Use a well-draining soil mix. Repot every three years in the spring as the plant grows.
Food Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter. Temperature Ideal temperature is 18-26°C; make sure it does not get colder than 12°C in winter.
Pet-safe No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.
Sprouts Top Tips Keep an eye out for lower-leaf loss; this will tell you if your plant is in too dark a location, and therefore too full of water, and if you spot it can help you reduce stress on your plant!
We have launched our first (hopefully monthly) ‘Letter from the Founder’ blog post. I talk about a string of bad luck, from water gushing from various ceilings in my life to a break-in, and also reflect on the incredible work we have done to win two awards earlier this year. I look ahead to what’s coming up in August, projects we are working on with our clients, and some thoughts about the rest of the year. And I give an insight into my brain, why I am who I am and why I’m so thankful for all the opportunities, passion and excitement that running Sprouts has given me as a founder and as a woman.