Variegated Rubber Plant, also known as Ficus Elastica, is a popular indoor plant that is commonly used for decoration purposes. Its large, glossy and variegated leaves make it an attractive addition to any room, office or garden. But did you know that variegated rubber plants have many other uses besides just being decorative? Let’s explore some of the common uses of this beautiful plant.
One of the primary benefits of having a variegated rubber plant in your home or office is its ability to purify the air. Like many other indoor plants, variegated rubber plants are natural air purifiers. They can remove harmful toxins and pollutants from the air, making it cleaner and healthier to breathe.
According to a study conducted by NASA, variegated rubber plants are effective in removing formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air. These harmful chemicals are commonly found in household products such as cleaning agents, paints, and plastics.
Another benefit of having a variegated rubber plant is its ability to absorb sound. The thick leaves of the plant can help reduce noise levels in a room, making it ideal for use in apartments or homes located near busy streets or noisy areas.
Having indoor plants has been linked to reducing stress levels and promoting mental health. Variegated rubber plants are no exception. The presence of plants can help create a sense of calm and relaxation, which can be beneficial for people who suffer from anxiety or stress-related disorders.
Of course, one of the most common uses of variegated rubber plants is as a decoration piece. The plant’s large size and beautiful leaves make it an attractive addition to any room. Plus, it requires minimal maintenance and care, making it ideal for people who don’t have a lot of time to spend on plant care.
Variegated rubber plants prefer to be kept in moist soil but not waterlogged. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, usually once every week or two. Be sure to drain any excess water from the saucer to avoid root rot.
Variegated rubber plants can tolerate bright, indirect light but direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. It’s best to place them near a window where they can receive filtered light or in a partially shaded area.
Fertilize your variegated rubber plant once every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Reduce the frequency to once a month during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Yes, variegated rubber plants can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a cutting that is 4-6 inches long and has at least one leaf node. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip it in rooting hormone before planting it in moist soil. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in bright, indirect light until it roots.
In conclusion, variegated rubber plants are not just beautiful indoor plants but also beneficial for air purification, sound absorption, stress reduction, and decoration. With proper care and maintenance, they can thrive for many years and provide numerous benefits to your home or office environment.