Moraceae
Ficus elastica 'Burgundy / Black Rubber Plant'
Create an instant upscale look with the Black Rubber Plant. Its thick, glossy, dark leaves deliver dramatic contrast and a clean architectural shape—perfect for modern interiors, reception areas, and living rooms. Easy to maintain and forgiving, it’s a premium foliage plant that looks expensive without demanding constant care. Place it in bright indirect light, water when the top soil dries, and enjoy a bold, evergreen statement all year.
1. Basic Identification
Common Name: Black Rubber Plant, Burgundy Rubber Tree
Botanical Name: Ficus elastica
Variant: Burgundy / Black Rubber Plant
Plant Color: Dark Purple / Deep Maroon
Plant Country: Turkey
Arabic Name: مطاط
Family: Moraceae
2. Taxonomy & Classification
The Ficus elastica belongs to the kingdom Plantae, order Rosales, and the family Moraceae. It is a member of the Ficus genus, which includes approximately 850 species of woody trees and shrubs, most notably the common fig.
3. Origin & Distribution
Native to the tropical regions of South and Southeast Asia, specifically India, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It has been naturalized in other tropical climates worldwide and is a popular ornamental plant in Mediterranean and subtropical regions.
4. Visual Characteristics
This variety is known for its stunning, leathery, oval-shaped leaves that are a deep, dark purple to near-black color. The leaves have a high-gloss finish and a prominent midrib. New growth often emerges from pinkish or red sheaths, providing a beautiful color contrast.
5. Size & Dimensions
As an indoor plant, it typically reaches a height of 6 to 10 feet, though it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size. The broad leaves can grow up to 12 inches long and 5 inches wide.
6. Light Requirements
Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its deep, dark coloration. It can tolerate some direct morning sun, but harsh afternoon sun may scorch the leaves. Low light levels may cause the plant to become leggy and the leaves to turn a lighter green.
7. Watering Needs
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. It is important to avoid overwatering, as Ficus elastica is susceptible to root rot if left in standing water. Reduce watering frequency during the winter months.
8. Soil & Potting
Requires a well-draining potting mix. A combination of standard potting soil, perlite, and pine bark or orchid bark provides the necessary aeration and drainage for healthy root growth.
9. Temperature & Humidity
Thrives in temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C). It prefers moderate to high humidity but adapts well to average household humidity levels. It should be protected from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
10. Fertilization
Apply a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer once a month during the active growing season in spring and summer. Do not fertilize during the dormant winter period.
11. Maintenance & Care Level
Classified as easy to moderate care. Maintenance involves wiping the large leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and maintain their shine. Pruning can be done in the spring to encourage bushier growth or to control height.
12. Growth & Propagation
It is a relatively fast-growing plant under ideal conditions. Propagation is most successful through stem cuttings or air layering, though it requires patience as the plant produces a milky white sap (latex) that needs to dry before planting.
13. Common Problems
Common issues include leaf drop due to environmental stress or overwatering. It can also be affected by pests such as scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites if the air is too dry or the plant is neglected.
14. Benefits & Uses
Recognized for its air-purifying qualities, particularly its ability to remove formaldehyde from indoor air. It is widely used as a statement piece in interior design, home decor, and corporate office spaces due to its architectural form.
15. Toxicity & Safety
The plant is considered toxic to pets (cats and dogs) and humans if ingested, as it contains a milky sap that can cause gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation.
Ficus elastica 'Burgundy / Black Rubber Plant'
Create an instant upscale look with the Black Rubber Plant. Its thick, glossy, dark leaves deliver dramatic contrast and a clean architectural shape—perfect for modern interiors, reception areas, and living rooms. Easy to maintain and forgiving, it’s a premium foliage plant that looks expensive without demanding constant care. Place it in bright indirect light, water when the top soil dries, and enjoy a bold, evergreen statement all year.
1. Basic Identification
Common Name: Black Rubber Plant, Burgundy Rubber Tree
Botanical Name: Ficus elastica
Variant: Burgundy / Black Rubber Plant
Plant Color: Dark Purple / Deep Maroon
Plant Country: Turkey
Arabic Name: مطاط
Family: Moraceae
2. Taxonomy & Classification
The Ficus elastica belongs to the kingdom Plantae, order Rosales, and the family Moraceae. It is a member of the Ficus genus, which includes approximately 850 species of woody trees and shrubs, most notably the common fig.
3. Origin & Distribution
Native to the tropical regions of South and Southeast Asia, specifically India, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It has been naturalized in other tropical climates worldwide and is a popular ornamental plant in Mediterranean and subtropical regions.
4. Visual Characteristics
This variety is known for its stunning, leathery, oval-shaped leaves that are a deep, dark purple to near-black color. The leaves have a high-gloss finish and a prominent midrib. New growth often emerges from pinkish or red sheaths, providing a beautiful color contrast.
5. Size & Dimensions
As an indoor plant, it typically reaches a height of 6 to 10 feet, though it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size. The broad leaves can grow up to 12 inches long and 5 inches wide.
6. Light Requirements
Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its deep, dark coloration. It can tolerate some direct morning sun, but harsh afternoon sun may scorch the leaves. Low light levels may cause the plant to become leggy and the leaves to turn a lighter green.
7. Watering Needs
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. It is important to avoid overwatering, as Ficus elastica is susceptible to root rot if left in standing water. Reduce watering frequency during the winter months.
8. Soil & Potting
Requires a well-draining potting mix. A combination of standard potting soil, perlite, and pine bark or orchid bark provides the necessary aeration and drainage for healthy root growth.
9. Temperature & Humidity
Thrives in temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C – 27°C). It prefers moderate to high humidity but adapts well to average household humidity levels. It should be protected from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
10. Fertilization
Apply a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer once a month during the active growing season in spring and summer. Do not fertilize during the dormant winter period.
11. Maintenance & Care Level
Classified as easy to moderate care. Maintenance involves wiping the large leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and maintain their shine. Pruning can be done in the spring to encourage bushier growth or to control height.
12. Growth & Propagation
It is a relatively fast-growing plant under ideal conditions. Propagation is most successful through stem cuttings or air layering, though it requires patience as the plant produces a milky white sap (latex) that needs to dry before planting.
13. Common Problems
Common issues include leaf drop due to environmental stress or overwatering. It can also be affected by pests such as scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites if the air is too dry or the plant is neglected.
14. Benefits & Uses
Recognized for its air-purifying qualities, particularly its ability to remove formaldehyde from indoor air. It is widely used as a statement piece in interior design, home decor, and corporate office spaces due to its architectural form.
15. Toxicity & Safety
The plant is considered toxic to pets (cats and dogs) and humans if ingested, as it contains a milky sap that can cause gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation.