Ficus Elastica Ruby
Also known as Ruby Rubber Plant.
Ficus elastica 'Ruby'
Care Difficulty
Easy. A colourful, low-maintenance houseplant that is perfect for beginners and experienced plant owners alike.
Light Requirements
Bright, indirect light. Plenty of bright light helps maintain the vibrant pink, cream, and green variegation. A few hours of gentle morning sun is beneficial, but avoid prolonged afternoon sun.
Water Requirements
Allow the top 2 inches of soil to dry before watering. Water thoroughly, then allow excess water to drain away. Reduce watering during the winter months.
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity (40 to 60%) but adapts well to average household conditions.
Pet Safety
Not pet safe. Toxic to cats, dogs, and people if ingested. The milky sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Growth Speed
Moderate. Produces new colourful leaves steadily throughout the growing season.
Expected Mature Size
- Height: 6 to 10 feet indoors
- Width: 2 to 4 feet
Pot Size
Repot every 2 to 3 years or when roots become crowded. Use a well-draining indoor potting mix and a container with drainage holes.
Where it Grows Best
Indoors in bright rooms with temperatures between 65 and 85°F (18 to 29°C). It makes an excellent floor plant in living rooms, offices, bedrooms, or sunrooms.
Perfect for…
- Beginner plant owners
- Bright living rooms
- Offices
- Modern home décor
- Colourful foliage collections
- Statement plants
Common Mistakes
- Growing in low light, causing the pink variegation to fade.
- Overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
- Allowing the soil to remain constantly wet.
- Placing the plant in direct afternoon sun.
- Exposing it to cold drafts or temperatures below 60°F (16°C).
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Ruby different from other Rubber Plants?
Ruby Rubber Plant features striking variegated leaves with shades of green, cream, and blush pink. Bright light helps keep the pink colouring vibrant.
Why are the new leaves pink?
New growth often emerges bright pink before gradually maturing into cream and green variegated leaves.
Can it tolerate lower light?
Yes, but lower light may cause slower growth and reduced variegation. Bright, indirect light produces the best colour.
How often should I fertilize it?
Feed once a month during spring and summer with a balanced water-soluble houseplant fertilizer at half strength. Stop or reduce fertilizing during winter.
Why are my leaves dropping?
Leaf drop is usually caused by overwatering, underwatering, sudden temperature changes, or moving the plant to a new location. Maintain consistent care and avoid frequent relocation.
Should I clean the leaves?
Yes. Wipe the large leaves regularly with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and help the plant absorb more light. Avoid commercial leaf shine products.
Shipping Guarantee
Every Ruby Rubber Plant is carefully inspected, watered, and securely packaged before shipping. Extra care is taken to protect the colourful foliage so your plant arrives healthy and ready to grow.
Healthy Arrival Guarantee
We stand behind the quality of our plants. If your Ruby Rubber Plant arrives with significant shipping damage or in poor condition, contact us within 24 hours of delivery with clear photos of the plant and its packaging. We will gladly work with you to provide an appropriate replacement or store credit in accordance with our Healthy Arrival Guarantee policy.
