The Burgundy Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica ‘Burgundy’) is a popular houseplant known for its striking appearance. Its large, glossy leaves display deep burgundy to almost black hues, often with a reddish tint. Native to the tropical rainforests of Asia, this cultivated rubber plant variety is easy to care for, making it suitable for all plant enthusiasts.
Caring for Your Burgundy Rubber Plant
For a healthy plant with vibrant coloration, provide bright, indirect light. This enhances the deep burgundy of its leaves. An east or west-facing window is ideal, offering ample light without harsh direct sun that can scorch foliage. Lower light can cause the burgundy color to fade to green and lead to leggy growth.
Water consistently, allowing the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry completely between waterings. This prevents root rot, as these plants are sensitive to overwatering. Ensure water drains thoroughly from the pot’s drainage holes. Reduce watering frequency in cooler winter months when the plant’s needs decrease.
A well-draining potting mix is essential. A general indoor potting mix amended with perlite or bark provides the necessary aeration and drainage. Some effective mixes include potting soil, cacti soil, and perlite, or a chunky mix with perlite and orchid bark.
Burgundy Rubber Plants prefer warm temperatures, ideally 60-85°F (15-30°C). They are sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature drops, which can cause leaf loss. Moderate to high humidity is beneficial. While average indoor humidity is often sufficient, a pebble tray or humidifier can provide extra moisture in dry environments. Misting is not recommended, as it can lead to fungal issues and is ineffective.
During spring and summer, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once or twice a month, diluted to half strength. This provides essential nutrients for robust growth. Reduce or stop fertilizing entirely in winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows.
Solving Common Problems
Issues with a Burgundy Rubber Plant often signal a need for environmental adjustment. Leaf drop can occur from overwatering, underwatering, sudden temperature fluctuations, or insufficient light. If leaves drop excessively, assess these environmental factors first.
Browning leaves or tips often indicate low humidity, inconsistent watering, or too much direct sunlight. Ensure the plant receives adequate, consistent moisture and avoid harsh, direct light. Yellowing leaves are commonly linked to overwatering, causing root stress, or a nutrient deficiency. Allowing the soil to dry sufficiently between waterings can resolve yellowing from overwatering.
Common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects can affect Burgundy Rubber Plants. Spider mites cause stippling and webbing; mealybugs appear as white, cottony masses; and scale as small, waxy bumps. Treat infestations by physically removing pests, blasting them with water, or applying organic solutions like neem oil or insecticidal soap. Regular inspection aids early detection and treatment.
Expanding Your Collection
Propagating your Burgundy Rubber Plant expands your collection. Stem cuttings are an effective method. Select a healthy stem at least 6 inches long, cutting just below a node. Remove lower leaves, leaving a few at the top.
Cuttings can root in water or moist, well-draining soil. For soil rooting, place the cut end 1-2 inches deep and cover the pot with a clear plastic bag for humidity. Place cuttings in bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture until roots develop.
Repotting is necessary when the plant’s root system fills its current pot. Signs include roots growing from drainage holes or the plant becoming root-bound. Repot during the active growing season, typically spring or summer.
Choose a new pot only about 2 inches wider to avoid overwatering. Use a fresh, well-draining potting mix. Gently transfer the plant, avoiding excessive root ball disturbance. Water thoroughly after repotting to help it settle.
Is It Safe?
The Burgundy Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica ‘Burgundy’) contains a milky sap that can be irritating. This plant is considered toxic if ingested by pets, including cats and dogs, and humans. The sap contains insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause adverse reactions. Potential symptoms of ingestion may include oral irritation, burning sensations in the mouth, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. To ensure safety, it is advisable to keep Burgundy Rubber Plants out of reach of children and pets.