Ficus shivereana isn’t as adaptable and hardy asFicus elastica, but it can still thrive with proper care.

Like other members of theFicusgenus, note that ficus shivereana is toxic to pets.

Ficus Shivereana Care

Caring for a ficus shivereana is similar to growing a typicalF.

ficus shivereana in tan ceramic pot in white room

The Spruce / Anastasia Tretiak

Brighter light will help this plant maintain its colorful variegation.

Soil

Use a light, well-drained potting mix for ficus shivereana.

Lighten up a basic potting mix with a few handfuls of perlite or orchid bark to enhance drainage.

Overhead closeup showing striations on leaves of a ficus shivereana

The Spruce / Anastasia Tretiak

A humidifier will do more for your ficus shivereana than misting.

Ficus shivereana will do well in temperatures between around 60 to 80 degrees.

Stop fertilizing in fall and winter.

Head on view of a ficus shivereana plant on a table

The Spruce / Anastasia Tretiak

Propagating Ficus Shivereana

you might propagate a healthy, mature ficus shivereana in water or in soil.

You’ll have the most success propagating in spring and summer.

Use a ceramic, plastic, or terra-cotta pot that’s one size larger than the previous pot.

Closeup showing a new leaf unfurling on a ficus shivereana

The Spruce / Anastasia Tretiak

Switch out the old potting mix for fresh soil.

If you spot pests, act quickly to remove them and prevent an infestation.

Dab away pests with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol or remove them with horticultural soap.

Overhead view of a ficus shivereana plant

The Spruce / Anastasia Tretiak

Curling Leaves

Both too much and too little water can cause ficus shivereana’s leaves to curl.

Check the soil moisture and consider how often you’ve been watering.

If the soil is dry, give the plant a deep watering.

In both cases, water when the top half of the soil has dried out going forward.

Ficus shivereana is less common than other varieties ofF.

elastica, but it’s becoming more available.

you’ve got the option to purchase it online and from specialty plant shops.

Yes, like mostFicushouseplants, ficus shivereana likes to be root-bound.

When in doubt, save repotting for another season.

In ideal conditions and with optimal care, ficus shivereana can live as long as 20 years indoors.

Yes, these two names refer to the same hybrid plant and are often used interchangeably.

North Carolina State University Extension.