Ficus elastica 'Abidjan' - Information and Plant Care:
Ficus elastica 'Abidjan' is a captivating cultivar of the Rubber plant, known for its striking, glossy leaves that emerge in a rich red-purple hue. As these leathery leaves mature, they transition to a dark green, creating a dramatic contrast against the plant's robust structure. This transformation makes Ficus elastica 'Abidjan' a visually stunning addition to any indoor plant collection, appreciated for its elegant foliage and low-maintenance nature. The red veining on the leaves adds an extra layer of visual interest, highlighting its unique character among Ficus cultivars.
Key Features:
- Distinctive Foliage: The large, glossy leaves of Ficus elastica 'Abidjan' are its standout feature. Emerging in shades of red-purple, they gradually deepen to a dark green, often with red veins visible on the surface.
- Growth Habit: This plant has a sturdy, upright growth habit, reaching heights of up to 2-3 meters indoors with proper care. Its thick stem and broad leaves contribute to its bold, architectural presence.
- Low-Maintenance: Known for its resilience, this cultivar is ideal for those seeking a dramatic, easy-care plant that can tolerate a range of indoor conditions, including low light and inconsistent watering.
Caring for Your Ficus elastica 'Abidjan':
- Light Requirements: Prefers bright, indirect light but can adapt to lower light levels. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
- Watering: Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
- Humidity: While it can tolerate average indoor humidity, this plant thrives in slightly higher humidity. Placing it near other plants can help maintain a more humid microclimate.
- Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a peat-based mix with added perlite or orchid bark to enhance aeration.
- Fertilization: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season. Over-fertilizing can cause leaf burn, so err on the side of caution.
- Pruning: Trim to maintain its shape and remove any damaged or yellowing leaves. Pruning can also encourage bushier growth.
Common Issues and Solutions:
- Yellowing Leaves: Often a sign of overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again and ensure the pot has good drainage.
- Drooping Leaves: This can indicate underwatering or low light conditions. Adjust watering habits and light exposure accordingly.
- Pests: Watch out for spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil, applying it to all leaf surfaces and crevices.
- Root Rot: Caused by consistently wet soil. Repot with fresh, well-draining soil and cut back on watering.
Additional Tips for Growing Ficus elastica 'Abidjan':
- Placement: While Ficus elastica 'Abidjan' can tolerate lower light, it will grow best in a spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in drafty areas or near heating vents.
- Acclimation: If moving the plant to a new location, do so gradually to allow it to adjust to changes in light and humidity.
- Propagation: Propagate via stem cuttings in spring or summer. Use a rooting hormone and keep cuttings in a warm, humid environment to encourage root development.
Etymology:
The genus name Ficus is derived from the Latin word for fig, "ficus," which was used to describe the fig tree. The name was first applied to this large genus of trees and shrubs by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. The specific cultivar name 'Abidjan' refers to the capital of Ivory Coast, reflecting the plant's strong, resilient character akin to the bustling city it’s named after.
Ficus elastica 'Abidjan'
Ficus elastica 'Abidjan' comes in following Sizes:
S - comes in a ⌀12 cm pot and is ca. 35 cm tall
M - comes in a ⌀23cm pot and is ca. 35 cm tall (2-3 plants in one pot)
XL - comes in a ⌀27 cm pot and is ca. 110 cm tall
XXL - comes in a ⌀27 cm pot and is ca. 150 cm tall