What This Variegated Plant?

Ask the Expert: What type of plant is this and what is its name? I want to know how to care for this plant, but do not know what it is. Darren

Flower Shop Network Plant Expert Reply: I believe what you have is a Ficus elastica ‘Variegata’. The Genus Ficus has over 800 different species. Ficus in the elastica species are commonly known as India rubber fig, India rubber tree or rubber plant.

The Ficus elastica ‘Variegata’ is often confused with the Ficus benjaminia. They can be distinguish from one another by the thickness of the leaves. The elastica has thicker more upright leaves. Most types of ficus including this one can produce a sap that will cause mild stomach upset if ingested. The sap can also cause skin irritation. Despite these issue Ficus are one of the most commonly known Ficus benjamina ‘Variegata.

Rubber Plants (Ficus elastica) requires a very moist but well-drained environment, a good balance of light and shade, and a varying fertilizer regimen over the course of its life.

You may want to read more detailed care instructions for Ficus Elastica. The care instructions will be below the picture on our rubber plant basket page.