Ficus Elastica 'Cloe'

Ficus Elastica Cloe is a beautifully shaped Rubber Plant with broad, glossy leaves and a softer, rounder look than many other ficus varieties. At around 65cm tall, it has enough height to make an impression while still feeling compact, balanced and easy to place in the home.

There is something wonderfully classic about a Rubber Plant. The leaves are thick, smooth and deeply glossy, held proudly on sturdy upright stems. Cloe has a slightly rounder leaf shape, which gives it a fuller, softer look than the more pointed leaves of some other Ficus Elastica varieties.

It is a plant that makes a room feel calmer and more established. It does not need bright flowers or complicated foliage to stand out. The deep green leaves, clean shape and slow steady growth give it the kind of timeless appeal that works in almost any interior.

Size
Plant supplied in a 19cm nursery pot
Plant height approximately 65cm

A naturally unique plant with variation in leaf size, colour, shape, branching and overall fullness.

Native habitat and growth pattern
Ficus Elastica is native to tropical parts of Asia, where it grows into a large tree in warm, humid forest conditions. In the home, it stays much more manageable in a pot but still grows with the same quiet confidence, gradually producing new leaves from the tips of its stems.

The common name Rubber Plant comes from the milky latex sap found inside its stems and leaves. In the past, this sap was used in the production of rubber, although today the plant is grown mainly for its beautiful foliage and wonderfully easy going nature.

Cloe is a slow to moderate grower, producing new leaves one at a time. They often emerge wrapped in a protective sheath before unfurling into their final glossy shape. With the right care, the plant will gradually become taller and fuller without suddenly taking over the room.

Styling at home
This is a very easy plant to style. Its upright shape means it works well in a living room, bedroom, hallway, home office or dining room, bringing a little height and softness without needing lots of surrounding plants or accessories.

The broad dark green leaves look beautiful against pale walls, natural wood, linen, stone and warm neutral interiors. It works equally well in a more modern home, where the glossy foliage can add contrast against clean lines and simple furniture.

At around 65cm tall, it is a lovely size for a plant stand, side table, low cabinet or brighter corner. It is substantial enough to feel like a proper indoor tree, but compact enough to move around if you are still finding its perfect place.

Care requirements

Light: Ficus Elastica Cloe prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate a little gentler sun in the morning or evening, but avoid prolonged harsh direct sunshine.

Water: Water when the top few centimetres of compost feel dry. Water thoroughly, then allow excess water to drain away. Rubber Plants do not like sitting in wet compost.

Humidity: Happy in average household humidity. Wiping the leaves occasionally with a soft damp cloth will keep them glossy and allow the plant to make the most of available light.

Temperature: Keep in a warm room between 18°C and 26°C, away from cold draughts and sudden changes in temperature.

Feeding: Feed monthly during spring and summer with a houseplant food to support healthy new growth and glossy foliage.

Ficus Elastica Cloe likes consistency more than fuss. Find it a good bright position, avoid overwatering and let it settle. It will gradually become one of those reliable plants that always makes a room look better.

Why choose this plant
Ficus Elastica Cloe is a lovely choice if you want a classic houseplant with a little more softness and fullness in its shape. The rounder leaves give it a gentler look than some Rubber Plants, while the glossy foliage still brings the structure and presence people love from a ficus.

It is also a very good all round plant. It looks smart in almost any room, does not need a complicated care routine and becomes more impressive as it grows. For newer plant owners, it is a reassuringly reliable choice. For more experienced collectors, it is a timeless plant that never really goes out of style.

This is a plant with real staying power. It is not chosen because it is the latest trend, but because it is beautiful, strong, easy to live with and gets better over time.

Interesting facts

• The common name Rubber Plant comes from the milky latex sap found inside its leaves and stems.

• Cloe has a slightly rounder leaf shape than many other Rubber Plant varieties.

• New leaves emerge tightly wrapped before gradually unfurling into their final glossy form.

• Rubber Plants can live for many years indoors when given a consistent position and sensible care.

• Wiping the leaves occasionally helps keep them looking their best and removes household dust.

FAQs

Is Ficus Elastica Cloe easy to care for?
Yes. It is a reliable, easy going houseplant that mainly needs bright indirect light and careful watering.

How tall is the plant?
Ficus Elastica Cloe is supplied at approximately 65cm tall.

Does it need a bright room?
Bright, indirect light is ideal. It will tolerate slightly lower light, but growth may slow and the plant may become less full over time.

Can I move it around the house?
It is best to choose a suitable position and let it settle there. Like many ficus plants, it can react to frequent changes in light and temperature by dropping a few leaves.

Why are the leaves glossy?
The thick, naturally glossy leaves are one of the main features of the Rubber Plant. An occasional wipe with a damp cloth will help keep them looking fresh.

Is it pet safe?
Like most ficus trees, it is best kept away from pets and young children, as chewing the leaves or sap can cause irritation.

Explore more

Looking for more pots to complete the look? Browse our full range of indoor plantpots or explore our easy-carehouseplants to match. And for inspiration on styling, tips and more, why not read the Happy Houseplants blog?