Ficus elastica 'Shivereana Moonshine'

Ficus elastica 'Shivereana Moonshine'
Common Names: Variegated Rubber Tree, Moonshine Rubber Plant
Scientific Name: Ficus elastica 'Shivereana' (Springy Fig, cultivar: Shivereana)
Origin: Native to Asia – from the Himalayas to Malaysia, Sumatra, and Java

The Ficus elastica 'Shivereana' grows like a miniature tree, with broad, multi-toned leaves fanning out from a central stem. Its standout feature? Gorgeous variegated foliage with blushes of pink, cream, olive, and deep forest green. This striking coloration makes it an eye-catching statement plant—perfect as a room centrepiece or a vibrant touch in a quiet corner.

Out in the wild, rubber trees can soar up to 60 meters tall, but indoors, expect a more modest (yet still impressive) height of around 2 meters (about 6 feet). It's a plant with serious presence and personality—ideal for adding a splash of colour and lushness to your home.

🌞 Light
Thrives in bright, indirect light, with a bit of gentle morning or evening sun. This helps maintain its variegation and prevents overwatering issues. Avoid harsh direct sun, though—it can scorch the leaves.

💧 Watering
Let the top half of the soil dry out between waterings. The pot will feel noticeably lighter when it's time to water again. Cut back on watering in winter when the plant’s growth slows and water evaporates more slowly.

💨 Humidity
Loves high humidity! A humidity tray or occasional misting will make this plant very happy, especially in drier homes.

🌱 Soil
Choose a well-draining soil mix—ideally one that combines moisture-holding elements like coir with chunkier materials like bark. Potting mixes specifically for Ficus are perfect. Repot every three years in spring as it grows.

🌿 Feeding
Feed once every four waterings during the growing season, and reduce to once every six waterings in autumn and winter.

🌡️ Temperature
Keep between 18–26°C. Don't let it drop below 12°C in winter—this plant likes it cozy.

🐾 Pet Safety
Not pet-safe. Toxic to cats, dogs, and curious kids if ingested.

✅ Top Tips
Lower leaf drop? That usually means it's either too dark or overwatered. Both are no-gos for this plant—especially since variegated varieties need more light to thrive.
For best results, give it a spot with a bit of gentle direct light, like an east- or west-facing window.
Remember: more light = brighter colors + less risk of root rot.