Bold, glossy and quietly dramatic, the Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica 'Abidjan') is grown for its big, leathery, oval leaves in the deepest burgundy green, so dark they can look almost black in a shady corner, with a striking red midrib and rich red tones on every new leaf. Named after the capital of the Ivory Coast, it brings real architectural presence to a room.

It makes a handsome floor or corner plant, its upright, tree like shape and near black foliage setting off lighter walls and greener plants beautifully. It is one of the more forgiving large houseplants and a well known air purifier, happy to be left to get on with growing once settled.

Larger plants are Store Collection only. Please get in touch before placing your order if you would like us to look into delivery.

Care at a glance

Light: Bright, indirect. Good light keeps the leaves richly coloured, while deep shade dulls them. Avoid harsh direct midday sun.

Water: Water when the top few centimetres of compost have dried, easing off in winter. Let any excess drain and avoid soggy compost, which risks root rot.

Humidity: Happy in average rooms. Wipe the leaves now and then to keep them glossy and dust free.

Temperature: Warm and steady, ideally 15 to 24C. Keep it away from cold draughts and sudden changes, which can cause leaf drop.

Feed: A houseplant feed every few weeks through spring and summer.

Note: The milky sap can irritate skin and it is toxic if chewed, so best kept away from curious pets and little ones.

Supplied in a nursery pot. As a living plant, size and shape vary from one to the next, so yours will be one of a kind.