Ficus elastica 'Shivereana Moonshine' – Rare Tones, Luminous Leaves, Sculptural Growth
Ficus elastica 'Shivereana Moonshine' is a striking rubber tree cultivar with silvery green, mottled foliage and a ghostly sheen that catches light from all angles. Compact, upright, and quietly bold, this plant brings a fresh twist to the classic Ficus elastica form. Its unique coloring — soft mint, creamy patches, and pale speckles — makes it a standout in any plant collection.
Visual Highlights and Structure of Ficus 'Shivereana Moonshine'
 
Leaf size: 20–30 cm long, broad and elliptical
 
Color: Silvery green with irregular cream and mint marbling
 
Texture: Leathery and semi-glossy
 
Stem: Upright, firm, with subtle pink or green tones
 
Growth: Slow and vertical; branches only when pruned
Natural Habitat and Indoor Profile
 
Origin: Species native to Southeast Asia — India, Malaysia, Indonesia
 
Climate: Warm, humid tropical forests with seasonal monsoon rains
 
Indoor size: Grows 100–150 cm tall with proper care
 
Latex sap: Milky white and toxic if ingested; can irritate skin
Care Tips for Ficus elastica 'Shivereana Moonshine'
 
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some soft direct sun.
 
Watering: Let top half of the soil dry before watering deeply.
 
Humidity: Adapts to standard room humidity. Benefits from occasional misting.
 
Temperature: Ideal range: 18–28 °C. Avoid drafts or rapid drops.
 
Soil: Loose, airy substrate with excellent drainage; aroid mixes are ideal.
 
Fertilizer: Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during active growth.
 
Repotting: Every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container.
 
Propagation: Via stem cuttings in water, moss, or perlite.
 
Semi-hydroponics: Thrives in LECA or passive systems with stable nutrients.
 
Pruning: Optional. Prune above nodes to shape or encourage branching.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
 
Leaf drop: Often caused by temperature swings or environmental stress.
 
Brown edges: Linked to low humidity or inconsistent watering. Adjust conditions gradually.
 
Yellow leaves: Typically due to overwatering — let the soil dry more between waterings.
 
Sticky residue: May indicate pests such as mealybugs or thrips. Isolate and treat promptly.
 
Pest control: Wipe down leaves and use neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Extra Care Notes
 
Provide consistent warmth, light, and watering to avoid stress
 
Clean leaves gently with a damp cloth or microfiber gloves to enhance photosynthesis
 
Pruning can help shape the plant or encourage bushier growth over time
Botanical Naming and Etymology
Ficus is Latin for “fig,” and elastica refers to the latex sap historically used to produce rubber. This species was formally described by Roxburgh and published in 1814. The cultivar name 'Shivereana Moonshine' is unregistered but widely recognized in the horticultural trade for its distinctively pale variegation.
FAQs – Ficus elastica 'Shivereana Moonshine'
 
Can I make it branch?Yes. Prune just above a node to activate lateral shoots.
 
Does it lose variegation in shade?No, the pattern is stable, but low light can reduce vibrancy.
 
Is the sap harmful?Yes. Always wash hands after pruning — avoid contact with skin or eyes.
 
Does it grow fast?It’s slower than other rubber plants. Growth improves with warmth and good light.
 
Can I grow it in LECA?Yes, as long as you maintain humidity and use a balanced nutrient solution.
Bring Home the Subtle Brilliance of Ficus 'Shivereana Moonshine'
If you're searching for a rare, sculptural plant with serene tones and easy care, Ficus elastica 'Shivereana Moonshine' is an exceptional choice. Order now to enjoy its soft shimmer and tropical grace in your indoor space.