Ficus elastica ‘Ruby’ is a stunning and very popular cultivar of the Rubber Tree. It is prized for its dramatic tri-colour variegation, which features a vibrant mix of deep green, creamy white, and prominent shades of bright pink or ruby red, especially noticeable on the new growth and leaf edges. These large, thick, leathery leaves are held on a sturdy, upright stem, making it an excellent architectural plant for interior spaces. It is generally considered a hardier and easier-to-manage alternative to many other large Ficus varieties, thriving best when given adequate bright light to maintain its rich colours.
Care Tips:
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Light: Requires bright, indirect light to ensure the variegated pink and red tones remain strong and defined. Protect it from direct, harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the paler parts of the leaves. It will tolerate lower light but the colours will fade.
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Watering: Allow the top 5–7 cm of the potting mix to dry out completely before watering thoroughly. Overwatering is the biggest killer; reduce watering significantly in winter when the plant’s growth slows.
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Soil: Use a quality, well-draining potting mix that is formulated for indoor plants to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
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Humidity: The plant copes well with average household humidity but will appreciate occasional misting or being placed near other plants to prevent the leaf edges from going crispy.
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Maintenance: Wipe the large leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust. This allows the plant to efficiently absorb the light it needs to fuel the variegated areas of the foliage.
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Toxicity: Like all Ficus, the white, milky sap (latex) is mildly toxic and can cause irritation if it contacts skin or eyes, and is harmful if ingested by pets or children. Prune using gloves.
