Ficus elastica Robusta

Common Name:
Rubber Plant 'Robusta'

Description:
Ficus elastica 'Robusta' is a lush, broad-leafed evergreen prized for its bold, glossy foliage and excellent adaptability to indoor and sheltered outdoor environments. Known for its large, dark green leaves with a leathery texture, this plant is a modern interior staple and also serves as an architectural statement in tropical-inspired gardens. In Melbourne, it can thrive outdoors in a sheltered spot free from frost, or flourish as a low-maintenance indoor feature. It enjoys bright, indirect light and consistently moist but not soggy soil, particularly during the growing months of spring and summer. During winter, it benefits from reduced watering and a warmer location. As a tropical plant, it does not tolerate frost and should be protected during colder months. Ficus elastica 'Robusta' does not often flower when grown indoors or in Melbourne's climate, but its striking foliage is the main attraction. With time, it can form a tall, upright shrub or small tree with a dense canopy.

Form:

• Tree - Small

• Shrub - Large

• Indoors / Well lit

Mature Size:

• Height: 2–3 metres indoors, up to 10 metres outdoors in optimal conditions

• Width: 1–2 metres

Aspect:

• Full Sun (if acclimatised outdoors)

• Part Shade

• Indoors / Well lit

Flowering:

• Does not flower under Melbourne's weather conditions

Flower Colour:

• N/A

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots

• Suitable for Topiary

• Herbaceous

• Perennial

• Disease Resistant

• Air-purifying qualities indoors

Toxicity:
Toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested. Sap can also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Companion Plants:

• Monstera deliciosa

• Philodendron 'Xanadu'

• Sansevieria trifasciata (Snake Plant)

• Calathea spp.

• Alocasia spp.