From a botanical perspective, Ficus elastica is a perennial evergreen tree belonging to the Moraceae family, native to parts of Northeast India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Indonesia. In its natural habitat, it is a large, fast-growing tree capable of reaching over 100 feet tall, often beginning its life as an epiphyte. Its defining characteristic is its glossy, thick, and leathery leaves, which contain a milky white latex sap. This sap, a form of defensive mechanism against herbivores, is the source of its common name and was once harvested to produce a lower-grade rubber. The plant's resilience, adaptability to indoor conditions, and striking foliage have made it a staple in horticulture, with numerous cultivars developed to highlight specific aesthetic traits.
The selection of Ficus elastica varieties is primarily based on variations in leaf morphology, which are stable mutations (sports) propagated vegetatively through cuttings or tissue culture to maintain their unique traits. The most significant characteristics for differentiation are leaf coloration, shape, and size. The standard or "Burgundy" type features broad, ovate leaves that are a deep, glossy green with a reddish undertone and a prominent pink to dark red sheath (stipule) protecting the new leaf. Cultivars are then bred and selected for deviations from this norm, such as variegation patterns caused by chimeral mutations that affect chlorophyll production, resulting in sectors of white, cream, or yellow.
Ficus elastica 'Decora': This is one of the most common and robust varieties. Its leaves are broader and larger than the standard type, with a pronounced central rib that is often red on the underside. The new growth emerges with a striking bronze-red sheath.
Ficus elastica 'Burgundy': Almost indistinguishable from 'Decora' to many, this cultivar is characterized by its deeply hued, dark green leaves that appear nearly black or a rich burgundy, especially in bright light. The leaves are thick and the midrib is typically a deep red.
Ficus elastica 'Robusta': As the name implies, this cultivar is prized for its even larger, broader, and more upright leaves, giving it a denser and more vigorous appearance. It is a selection made for its resilience and lush green foliage.
Ficus elastica 'Tineke': This is a highly popular variegated cultivar. Its leaves display an irregular pattern of cream to white variegation along the edges and veins against a background of gray-green. New growth often emerges with a pinkish tint, adding to its ornamental appeal.
Ficus elastica 'Ruby': A spectacular variegated variety, 'Ruby' features patches of vibrant pink, cream, and green on its foliage. The pink coloration is most prominent on new leaves and the sheath, fading to a more cream-based variegation as the leaf matures. It requires brighter light to maintain its intense colors.
Ficus elastica 'Doescheri': An older variegated cultivar, its leaves are adorned with a mix of gray-green, cream, and white splotches. The stems and leaf stalks (petioles) are also variegated with a pink and white pattern, distinguishing it from others.
Ficus elastica 'Abidjan': Similar to 'Burgundy', this variety has very dark, plum-colored leaves with a bright red central vein on the underside. It is named after the city in Côte d'Ivoire.
Ficus elastica 'Belize': This variety is similar to 'Ruby' but is often noted for its more consistent and pronounced pink and red hues alongside the classic cream and green variegation.
