Baby Robusta DEAL - 5 Plants 6cm Pot House Plants

🌿 Ficus elastica ‘Robusta’

Ficus elastica ‘Robusta’, or the Rubber Plant ‘Robusta’, is a bold and dependable houseplant known for its lush, glossy leaves and forgiving nature. A cultivated form of the classic Ficus elastica, this variety is prized for its broader, thicker, and more deeply coloured foliage, making it look fuller and more tropical even at a younger age. The leaves are dark green with a slight burgundy undertone, oval-shaped, and leathery in texture — often emerging with a reddish sheath that slowly peels away as the new leaf unfurls.

Originating from Southeast Asia, the Rubber Plant was historically cultivated for its latex-producing sap, but today it is grown almost exclusively as a decorative indoor plant. Robusta stands out for its sturdy, upright growth, which makes it perfect as a floor plant or an anchor piece in a plant display. It can reach impressive heights indoors if left unpruned, though it responds well to shaping and regular trimming.

This variety is especially suited to those who want a plant with a strong presence but less fuss — it's resilient, adaptable, and thrives in a range of indoor conditions, making it a favourite for both new and seasoned plant owners. Its air-purifying qualities and low-maintenance temperament add to its appeal, making it a stylish and practical addition to modern living spaces.

🪴 Ficus elastica ‘Robusta’ Care Guide

☀️ Light

• Prefers bright, indirect light for optimal growth and rich leaf colour.

• Can tolerate medium light but growth may slow and leaves may darken further.

• Avoid direct midday sun, which can scorch leaves, but some gentle morning or late afternoon sun is beneficial.

💧 Watering

• Allow the top 3–5 cm of soil to dry out between waterings.

• Water thoroughly, then let excess water drain completely.

• In winter, reduce watering frequency — overwatering is the most common cause of stress (yellowing leaves, root rot).

• The thick, slightly succulent leaves retain moisture, making the plant more drought-tolerant than many other houseplants.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Thrives between 16–24°C. Can tolerate short drops to 12°C but dislikes cold draughts or sudden changes.

• Humidity: Does well in normal household humidity. Occasional misting or placing near other plants helps in very dry environments.

🌱 Soil

• Use a well-draining indoor compost, ideally with added perlite or bark to improve aeration.

• A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal.

• Avoid heavy, moisture-retentive soils.

🔁 Feeding

• Fertilise every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser.

• Do not fertilise in autumn or winter unless the plant is actively growing.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Prune to control height, shape, or encourage bushier growth. Cut just above a node (leaf joint).

• Clean leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and enhance shine.

• Rotate the pot periodically to ensure even light exposure and symmetrical growth.

🌿 Repotting

• Repot every 1–2 years, preferably in spring. Signs it’s time include roots circling the pot or emerging from the drainage holes.

• Use a pot that is 2–4 cm larger in diameter to avoid moisture build-up.

🌱 Propagation

• Can be propagated via stem cuttings, ideally in spring or early summer.

• Cuttings root in water or moist soil with warmth and humidity; use rooting hormone to improve success rates.

🐾 Pet Safety

• Toxic if ingested by pets or humans. The milky sap can also irritate skin — wear gloves when pruning or repotting.