Ficus Shiveriana ‘Moonshine’

Variegated Rubber Plant

The Ficus Shivereana, also known as the Variegated Rubber Plant, is a captivating houseplant celebrated for its variegated foliage. Its leaves display a mix of light green with cream or white patterns, sometimes accompanied by pinkish hues in new growth, adding a distinctive touch to any indoor setting.

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Plant Profile

• Scientific Name: Ficus shiveriana
• Common Name: Shiveriana, Shiveriana Ficus, Varigated Ficus, Ficus Moonshine
• Family: Moraceae 
• Native Range: Hybrid origin; parent species native to Southeast Asia

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Caring for Ficus Shiveriana

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its variegation. Direct sunlight, especially in the afternoon, can scorch the leaves.
• Water: Water when the top half of the soil feels dry. Ensure thorough watering, allowing excess to drain, and avoid letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot.
• Humidity: Thrives in moderate to high humidity levels. Average household humidity is generally sufficient, but increasing humidity can benefit the plant.
• Temperature: Ideal temperatures range between 60–80°F (15–27°C). Protect from cold drafts and avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
• Pruning: Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and encourage healthy growth.
• Feeding: During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
• Propagation: Propagates effectively through stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem cutting with at least one node and root it in water or a well-draining potting mix.
• Growth Habit: Upright and bushy; indoors, it typically reaches 3–6 feet in height.
• Common Pests: Susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, scales, and aphids. Regularly inspect the plant and treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Toxicity: Contains a milky sap that is mildly toxic to humans and pets if ingested, potentially causing gastrointestinal discomfort. Contact with the sap can also cause skin irritation. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Fun Ficus shiveriana Fact:

The Ficus Shivereana is a hybrid cultivar, and its exact origins are not well-documented. However, it shares lineage with Ficus elastica, which is native to Southeast Asia.

History of the Ficus shiveriana’:

Originating from the tropical regions of India and Malaysia, this plant is a member of the Moraceae family, known for its diverse and striking foliage, making it a favorite among plant enthusiasts worldwide.