Ruby Ficus: Overview

The Ruby Rubber Plant, scientifically known as Ficus robusta “Ruby”, is a stunning addition to any indoor space. Belonging to the family Moraceae, this popular indoor plant is native to Southeast Asia. With its vibrant ruby-colored leaves, it adds a pop of color to your home decor. Ideal for hardy plant zones 10-12, it thrives in warm, humid conditions. Known for its longevity and large size, it can grow up to several feet tall indoors.

While it enjoys bright, indirect sunlight, it can tolerate lower light conditions, making it suitable for various environments. As with other rubber plants, it’s relatively easy to care for and can make a striking statement piece in your home.

The Ficus Ruby Rubber plant symbolizes abundance, prosperity, and growth. Its lush foliage and vibrant color bring a sense of vitality, making it an excellent addition to spaces where you seek to promote positivity and well-being.

While ficus plants are a beautiful and beneficial addition to your indoor space, it’s important to note that they are toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of curious pets to ensure their safety.   

Check out other rubber plant varieties like Ficus Elastica - “Burgundy” Rubber Tree or Ficus Elastica Tineke, available on Lively Root if you’d like a diverse selection. 

Ruby Ficus: Benefits

• Enhances indoor air quality by purifying the air
• Increases humidity levels, benefiting both plants and humans
• Symbolized good fortune and prosperity
• Adds aesthetic appeal to indoor and outdoor spaces

Ruby Ficus Elastica: Care Guide

Ruby Ficus Elastica, commonly known as the Ruby Rubber Plant, is a relatively low-maintenance plant, suitable for beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts alike.

Watering and Light Requirements

Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not soggy, allowing the top inch to dry out between waterings. Place in bright, indirect light, avoiding direct sunlight that can scorch its leaves. 

Temperature and Humidity

Keep your Ruby Rubber tree plant in a warm environment with temperatures between  65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It thrives in moderate to high humidity therefore, occasional misting will benefit your plant. 

Soil, Repotting, and Feeding

Plant your Ruby Rubber tree in well-draining soil, such as a mixture of potting soil and perlite. Repot every 2-3 years or when the roots outgrow the pot. Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. 

Propagation

Propagate your Ruby Rubber plant by using healthy stem cuttings. Dip them in rooting hormone and plant them in small pots with fresh soil. Keep the new plants in a spot with bright, indirect light. Roots should develop within 6-8 weeks. Newly propagated Ruby rubber plants will make the perfect gift that attracts abundance and happiness.

Pruning and Maintenance

Regularly prune to maintain its desired shape and remove any yellowing or damaged leaves. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust, allowing the plant to breathe freely. Watch for signs of pests like spider mites and treat them promptly if detected. 

Ruby Ficus: Placement, Companion & Alternative Plants

When considering the placement of your Ficus Elastica Ruby’s placement, finding the right spot to showcase its vibrant foliage and enhance your space is essential. Additionally, selecting suitable companion plants can complement its aesthetic and care requirements, creating a harmonious indoor greenery ensemble.

Best Locations & Uses

• Ideal for plant enthusiasts seeking a low-maintenance yet visually striking addition to their indoor jungle.
• It is perfect for individuals with a spacious living area or office, as its sizable presence can fill larger spaces with lush greenery.
• It is well-suited for those residing in warmer climates, where it can thrive indoors and outdoors, adding a touch of tropical charm to gardens and patios.
• It is a fantastic choice for beginner gardeners looking to cultivate their green thumb, as it tolerates a wide range of conditions with minimal fuss.
• Thanks to its richly colored leaves and statuesque growth habit, this plant is excellent for individuals seeking to create a bold focal point in their interior decor.  

Companion Plants

Enhance your Ruby Ficus plant with complementary greenery.

• Pothos Pearl Jade (Epipremnum aureum “Marble Queen”): The Pothos Pearl Jade is a versatile vine that not only thrives in similar light and moisture conditions but also adds cascading foliage to complement the upright growth of your rubber plant.
• Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): With its elegant white blooms and preference for low to moderate light, the Peace Lily makes an ideal companion, creating a harmonious contrast in texture and form.
• Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata “Superba”): Known for its resilience and air-purifying qualities, the Snake Plant pairs perfectly with the Ruby Rubber plant, 

Alternative Plants

Explore pet-friendly alternatives to the Ruby Rubber Plant:

• Neanthe Bella Palm (Chamaedorea elegans): With its graceful fronds and compact size, the Neanthe Bella Palm is an excellent choice for pet owners seeking a non-toxic option that adds a touch of greenery to any space.
• Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): Renowned for its air-purifying properties and lush foliage, the Boston Fern is a safe and stylish fern variety - a great alternative to the rubber plant, providing a vibrant and pet-friendly accent to your home.
• Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Featuring arching leaves and an easy-care nature, the Spider Plant is a resilient choice that adds texture and visual interest while remaining safe for curious pets.

Buy Your Ruby Rubber Tree From Lively Root Today

Experience the beauty and benefits of the Ruby Rubber plant in your home today. Shop now at Lively Root and elevate your indoor greenery space!