The Ficus Elastica, or Rubber Plant, is one of the most well-known house plants out there. That being said, Melinda, a Ficus Elastica Melanie, is a slightly less common member of the family! Her stunning foliage is a deep, glossy green, with a subtle hint of burgundy.
As mentioned, you may be familiar with Melinda's brothers, Felix the Ficus Abidjan, and Freddie the Ficus Robusta - the whole family are some of the best air-filtering plants available, and low-maintenance too.
Here’s an interesting one for you - in certain parts of India, the rubber tree’s strong roots have been trained to form ‘living bridges’ across small rivers.
Melinda, Ficus Elastica Melanie
Melinda prefers bright indirect light to partial shade, without prolonged exposure to direct sun - a touch of morning sunlight wouldn’t go a miss.
If you’re not sure what level of light you have, check the shadows cast by your plant:
- Minimal shadow = lower light
- Half shadow = indirect light
- Full shadow = direct sun