Different Types of Rubber Tree Plants: A Complete Guide
- Jayant Upadhyay
- Jul 26
- 4 min read
Table of Contents
Introduction
What Is a Rubber Tree Plant?
Why Rubber Trees Are Popular in Home Décor
Key Benefits of Rubber Plants
Main Types of Rubber Tree Plants
Ficus elastica ‘Robusta’
Ficus elastica ‘Tineke’
Ficus elastica ‘Ruby’
Ficus elastica ‘Burgundy’
Ficus elastica ‘Decora’
Ficus elastica ‘Melany’
Ficus elastica ‘Doescheri’
Ficus elastica ‘Shivereana’
Comparison Table of Rubber Tree Types
How to Choose the Right Variety
Growing and Caring for Rubber Tree Plants
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Decorating With Rubber Plants
FAQs
Final Thoughts
1. Introduction
Rubber tree plants have long been loved for their lush, glossy foliage and ease of care. As houseplant popularity continues to grow, so does interest in the different types of rubber plants. From bold greens to variegated leaves with pinks and creams, there’s a rubber tree for every aesthetic.
In this guide, we explore the most popular and unique varieties of Ficus elastica, commonly known as rubber tree plants. Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or just starting your indoor garden, this guide will help you choose and care for the perfect type.
2. What Is a Rubber Tree Plant?
The rubber tree (Ficus elastica) is a tropical evergreen native to Southeast Asia. It gets its name from the milky white latex it produces—once used to make rubber. Though it’s no longer a major source of commercial rubber, it has become one of the most popular ornamental houseplants due to its minimal care needs and dramatic appearance.
3. Why Rubber Trees Are Popular in Home Décor
Rubber tree plants are a favorite among interior designers and home gardeners alike for the following reasons:
Low maintenance
Air-purifying abilities (filters formaldehyde and other toxins)
Stunning foliage
Adaptable to a variety of lighting conditions
Aesthetic versatility: From minimalist modern to jungle boho
4. Key Benefits of Rubber Plants
Improve indoor air quality
Visually enhance empty corners
Require less water than tropical plants
Available in multiple leaf colors and textures
Grow well in pots or directly in the ground (outdoors in USDA Zones 10–12)
5. Main Types of Rubber Tree Plants
Here are the most common and stunning varieties of rubber plants:
A. Ficus elastica ‘Robusta’
Description: The most common variety. It features large, thick, dark green leaves and is often mistaken for the standard version.
Size: Can grow up to 10 feet indoors
Best For: Beginners
B. Ficus elastica ‘Tineke’
Description: This variegated variety has creamy-white and green marbled leaves with pink stems.
Visual Appeal: Very popular on Instagram and Pinterest
Light Needs: Needs bright, indirect light to maintain its variegation
C. Ficus elastica ‘Ruby’
Description: This stunning variety has pink, green, and cream-colored variegation. A must-have for collectors.
Growth: Slower than others
Best Placement: Bright corner to enhance pink tones
D. Ficus elastica ‘Burgundy’
Description: Features deep burgundy-black leaves with a dramatic appearance.
Color: Almost black under low light
Interior Match: Perfect for modern or minimalist homes
E. Ficus elastica ‘Decora’
Description: Considered the "original" rubber plant. Has glossy green leaves with a reddish midrib.
Leaf Shape: Broader than others
Feature: Dense foliage with a waxy look
F. Ficus elastica ‘Melany’
Description: Similar to Burgundy but with narrower, darker leaves and a compact structure.
Growth Habit: Bushier and fuller
Perfect For: Small spaces or desktops
G. Ficus elastica ‘Doescheri’
Description: A lesser-known variegated rubber plant with mottled yellow-green leaves.
Unique Trait: Mottled texture instead of marbled
Rare Find: Usually sold by specialty nurseries
H. Ficus elastica ‘Shivereana’
Description: Pale green leaves with faint speckles and pink stems.
Trend Alert: Gaining popularity among rare plant collectors
Light: Bright, indirect sunlight
6. Comparison Table of Rubber Tree Types
Variety | Leaf Color | Growth Rate | Best Light | Aesthetic |
Robusta | Dark green | Fast | Medium light | Classic |
Tineke | Cream + green | Moderate | Bright light | Tropical |
Ruby | Pink, green, cream | Slow | Bright light | Bold & trendy |
Burgundy | Deep burgundy/black | Moderate | Low to bright | Modern |
Decora | Green + red midrib | Fast | Medium light | Traditional |
Melany | Dark green, narrow | Slow | Medium light | Compact spaces |
Doescheri | Yellow + green mottled | Slow | Bright light | Rare & quirky |
Shivereana | Speckled pale green | Moderate | Bright light | Rare elegance |
7. How to Choose the Right Variety
Choosing the right rubber tree depends on:
Your lighting conditions (Variegated types need more light)
Space availability (Melany or Tineke for small spaces)
Color preferences (Go for Ruby or Burgundy if you want bold tones)
Your skill level (Robusta is the easiest to care for)
8. Growing and Caring for Rubber Tree Plants
Light:
Prefer bright, indirect light
Avoid direct sun on variegated varieties
Water:
Let soil dry out between watering
Reduce water during winter
Humidity:
Average room humidity is fine
Mist occasionally or use a pebble tray
Soil:
Well-draining potting mix
Add perlite or orchid bark for aeration
Fertilizer:
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer)
Pruning:
Prune to control height and encourage bushier growth
9. Common Problems and Fixes
Problem | Cause | Solution |
Yellowing leaves | Overwatering | Let soil dry completely |
Leaf drop | Sudden temperature change | Keep away from drafts |
Brown edges | Low humidity | Mist regularly |
Faded variegation | Lack of light | Move to brighter spot |
Pests (spider mites, etc.) | Dry conditions | Neem oil or insecticidal soap |
10. Decorating With Rubber Plants
Ideas:
Tineke in white pots for a Scandinavian look
Ruby as a focal piece in boho interiors
Burgundy in black planters for modern spaces
Melany on desks or countertops
Use plant stands for height variation
11. FAQs
Q. Can rubber plants grow outdoors?
Yes, but only in USDA Zones 10–12. In colder climates, they must be kept indoors.
Q. Are rubber plants toxic to pets?
Yes, they contain latex that can be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.
Q. Do rubber plants clean the air?
Yes, NASA’s clean air study listed Ficus elastica as effective in removing toxins like formaldehyde.
12. Final Thoughts
Rubber tree plants are more than just trendy indoor décor—they’re hardy, beautiful, and available in a wide variety of colors and shapes to suit every personality and interior. From the dramatic Burgundy to the artsy Ruby and the rare Shivereana, there’s a perfect rubber plant for every space.
Whichever variety you choose, with the right care, your rubber tree will thrive and transform your room into a greener, healthier sanctuary.
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