Scientific Name Ficus elastica (springy fig) 'Tineke'
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, many-shaded leaves branching off a central stem. Its variegated leaves, in shades of cream, olive and forest green, with red-tinged veins, make it out as a standout shrub, an ideal centrepiece or sideboard plant which will add interest to any room. Light Thrives in bright, indirect light; if the light is not bright enough it will start to lose its variegation. 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.