7 Reasons How We KNOW this Plant is Going to Be the New Fiddle Leaf Fig
I know, I know. We too get sick of hearing that [insert anything here] is the new black. But I think we’ve truly found the perfect alternative to the ubiquitous fiddle leaf fig which — although admittedly lovely — is somewhat hard to take care of. If you are looking for a new plant hero to transform your interior, without demanding too much of your time, please allow me introduce you.
Here are seven really good reasons to consider a rubber tree plant:
#7: They’ve Got Major Drama
Like fiddle leaf figs, a rubber plant is seriously sculptural when it has room to grow, as you can really see in this home from Freunde von Freunden. The tree is a major focal point in an otherwise minimalist, subdued living room.
#6: You Can Put Baby In a Corner
This Scandinavian home from Magic Dream Life has a tons of plants, including a rubber plant in the living room, which gives life to an awkward space perfectly by curving gracefully away from the wall.
#5: They Show Up In Chic Spaces
Like a certain other plant we know, rubber plants are a go-to for designers and taste makers, as all these examples attest. Marie Claire Maison featured this Farrow & Ball ad, which in turn used a rubber plant to illustrate one of its colors of the year.
#4: They Too Suit Many Styles
Some plants scream “mid-century modern” or “bohemian” but rubber plants are just basic enough to have a place anywhere, regardless of style. Here it blends beautifully in a graphic modern Australian home from Design*Sponge.
#3: They Also Photograph Like Nobody’s Business
They have a nice combination of volume meets negative space, which makes them great for visuals.
#2: Each Has Its Own Unique Character
Either small or large, rubber trees all take on a life and shape of their own as they grow. Above, a variegated rubber plant from The New Bohemians by Justine Blakeney and Dabito, via The Jungalow.
#1: They’re Easier To Take Care Of
Rubber plants have an edge because they actually stay alive longer. Fiddle leaf figs are famously temperamental but these guys can thrive even with some neglect.
Can’t get behind the rubber tree? Here’s the plant another Apartment Therapy editor is betting will replace the fiddle leaf fig tree in your heart and home.
Re-edited from a post originally published 10.24.16.