Kumipuissa

Kumipuissa is a Finnish term that translates to "rubber trees" or "rubber tree plants." In its most common usage, it refers to Ficus elastica, a species of plant widely cultivated as a houseplant. Native to northeastern India, Indonesia, and China, Ficus elastica is characterized by its large, glossy, dark green leaves and its ability to produce a white latex sap when cut, which is the source of natural rubber.

As an indoor plant, kumipuissa is appreciated for its striking appearance and relatively easy care. It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions, although this may affect leaf coloration and growth. The plant prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering is a common issue and can lead to root rot. Kumipuissa can grow quite tall indoors, sometimes reaching the ceiling, and its aerial roots can also become a prominent feature.

The name "kumipuissa" directly reflects the plant's historical and commercial significance in the production of rubber. While Ficus elastica was once a major source of natural rubber, plantations of the rubber tree Hevea brasiliensis have largely superseded it for large-scale industrial rubber production. Nevertheless, Ficus elastica remains a popular ornamental plant globally, valued for its aesthetic qualities and its connection to the history of rubber.