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The leaves are thick, leathery, and oval-shaped, with a rich burgundy-green upper surface and a subtle bronze-red underside. New growth emerges in a striking reddish sheath before unfurling into mature, glossy foliage. More compact and slower-growing than other rubber plant varieties, Melany is ideal for smaller interiors, desks, or as a feature plant in minimalist dcor.
Refined, low-maintenance, and air-purifying, Ficus Melany is a perfect blend of classic tropical beauty and modern simplicity a must-have for any plant collection.
Thrives in bright, indirect light, but will tolerate moderate light levels. Direct sunlight may cause leaf scorch, while very low light can slow growth and reduce leaf gloss. A bright east- or north-facing room is ideal.
Water when the top 35 cm of soil feels dry. Keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Allow excess water to drain away, and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. In winter, reduce watering slightly while maintaining light soil moisture.
Temperature: Prefers 1826C. Protect from cold draughts and temperatures below 15C.
Humidity: Average indoor humidity is suitable, though slightly higher humidity (5060%) helps maintain glossy foliage. Mist occasionally or wipe leaves with a damp cloth.
Use a rich, well-draining peat-free compost, ideally with added perlite or bark to improve aeration. Repot every 23 years in spring or when roots begin to outgrow the pot.
Feed every 46 weeks in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser to promote steady growth and rich leaf colour. No feeding is needed in winter.
Prune to shape or control height by trimming just above a leaf node. Remove any damaged or yellowing leaves. Wipe the leaves regularly with a soft cloth to remove dust and enhance their natural sheen. Rotate occasionally to encourage even growth.
A slow to moderate grower, typically reaching 11.5 metres indoors. The compact growth habit makes it a great choice for smaller spaces where a full-sized Rubber Tree might overwhelm.
Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Leaf drop: Sudden temperature changes or relocation stress.
Brown edges: Low humidity or inconsistent watering.
Pests: Occasionally scale insects, mealybugs, or thrips wipe leaves regularly to prevent infestations.
The Ficus elastica has been a staple of indoor plant collections for decades, known for its hardiness, lush form, and air-purifying properties. The Melany cultivar was developed for its compact size and richer foliage tones, making it perfect for modern interiors.
This plant not only adds depth and texture to your dcor but also helps improve air quality by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide combining aesthetics with health benefits.
Quick Care Summary
Light: Bright, indirect; tolerates moderate light
Water: Lightly moist; allow topsoil to dry slightly
Temperature: 1826C; protect below 15C
Humidity: Average indoor; mist occasionally
Soil: Rich, well-draining compost
Feed: Every 46 weeks in spring/summer
Growth: Compact upright plant, 11.5 m; glossy burgundy-green leaves with red undersides
Toxicity Note: Like all Ficus species, Melany contains a milky latex sap that may irritate the skin and is toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.
Styling Tip:
Place Ficus Melany in a light-toned or gold ceramic pot to highlight its deep burgundy leaves. It pairs beautifully with variegated or lime-green tropicals such as Aglaonema Chartreuse Pretty or Philodendron Lemon Saw for visual contrast.
