Yes, it is completely “in” again, the rubber tree. After his hype in the eighties, he disappeared from rooms and offices and only recently reappeared. The main reasons: With its large, shiny, evergreen leaves, the rubber tree is not just an absolute eye-catcher. It is also robust and easy to clean. It also improves air quality. Today, he is experiencing a revival and is returning to our homes. It belongs to the genus Ficus (figs) and is considered a classic among indoor plants. Thanks to numerous varieties, it also harmonizes with any furnishing style.

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“Alfred” rubber tree - a friendly resistance fighter

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Our rubber tree owes the variety name “Robusta” to its remarkable resistance to both diseases and maintenance errors. However, Robusta rubber tree is very loyal to its location and doesn't like being carried back and forth at all. Conclusion: Think carefully about where you place rubber tree “Alfred” and then leave it there if possible. “Alfred” feels comfortable in a bright, semi-shady place with little or no direct sunlight. Ficus elastica is an ideal plant for bedrooms, living rooms, bathrooms and offices. It does not require any special humidity and feels comfortable in a normal room climate. However, you should avoid drafts.

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“Alfred” rubber tree — clever survivalist

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Light and nutrients are highly sought after in tropical rainforests. That is why there are a lot of climbing plants. This includes the rubber tree. However, he is also a strangle fig. For animals, this is a land of milk and honey. They eat their fruit and carry the seeds in their stomachs to other trees. The seeds end up on a branch via the animal excrement. And if it is sunny enough there, a small fig plant can grow from the seed. This is how the strangle fig's life begins as an epiphyte. It still receives nutrients and water from its environment. But then long aerial roots form. As soon as they reach the ground and penetrate it, the strangle fig receives additional water and nutrients. Now it is getting bigger and bigger, with fatal consequences for the carrier tree. The thick shoots of the strangle fig, which now arise, wrap themselves around the tree like a net and strangle it. It's actually pretty clever. Because in this way, the strangle fig has found a way to get a good place without having to train a strong tribe itself.

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“Alfred” rubber tree is vain — give it some leaf care

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Since the leaves of the rubber tree are very large, dust is deposited on them. This stands out clearly from the dark green background and looks unattractive. It also reduces light absorption. This has a negative effect on the growth and vitality of the plant. Conclusion: The leaves should be cleaned regularly. Simply wipe it off thoroughly with a soft cloth. If the plant is near the kitchen, a greasy film of dirt may form. It is best to remove this with a damp cloth, e.g. made from soft microfiber. Just make sure you don't damage the leaves. By the way: you can find the information online that the leaves of the rubber tree shine beautifully when you rub them off with milk, oil or beer. Please don't do that. Such treatments may cause damage to the plant.

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“Alfred” rubber tree — with unparalleled symbolism

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Want to wish someone good? Then the rubber tree “Alfred” is the right choice for you. In feng shui, it stands for abundance, luck and wealth. But since it belongs to the genus of fig plants, it is also said to have an inspiring, calming appearance. In the tropics, fig trees are even considered sacred. Not only because Buddha attained spiritual enlightenment under a fig tree. In India, too, many people worship him every day in one of their morning rituals. In the Old Testament, it also stands for peace and prosperity. And in ancient Greece and Rome, the plant stood for fertility. The rubber tree therefore symbolizes abundance, happiness, wealth, inspiration, calming, enlightenment, peace and fertility. You're just spoilt for choice.

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