Burgundy Rubber Plant

If you’re looking for a houseplant that makes a dramatic statement, look no further than the burgundy rubber plant. With its stunning deep red foliage, this plant adds a rich, sophisticated pop of color to any room. It’s a favorite for good reason, combining bold looks with a surprisingly easy-going nature.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover care, propagation, and how to keep those gorgeous leaves looking their best.

The burgundy rubber plant, a cultivar of Ficus elastica, is prized for its large, glossy leaves. New growth emerges in a deep, almost burgundy red, maturing to a dark green with reddish undertones. It’s a robust plant that can grow quite tall indoors with the right care, making it a perfect floor plant for a bright corner.

Essential Care Guide

Caring for your plant is straightforward once you understand its basic needs. The key factors are light, water, and a stable environment.

Light Requirements

This plant thrives in bright, indirect light. This is crucial for maintaining the intensity of its leaf color.

Ideal Spot: Near an east or west-facing window is perfect.
Low Light: It will survive in lower light, but growth will slow and the red leaf color may fade to a more green hue.
Direct Sun: Avoid harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the beautiful leaves.

Watering and Humidity

Overwatering is the most common mistake. These plants like to dry out a bit between drinks.

Check the Soil: Before watering, stick your finger about 2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
Water Thoroughly: Water until it runs out the drainage holes, then empty the saucer.
Reduce in Winter: Water less frequently during the dormant winter months.
Humidity: Average home humidity is usually fine, but it appreciates a boost. Mist the leaves occasionally or use a pebble tray.

Soil and Fertilizing

A well-draining potting mix is essential. A standard indoor plant mix with some perlite added for aeration works great.

Feed your plant during the growing season (spring and summer).

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength.
Fertilize once a month.
Stop feeding in fall and winter when growth stops.

Pruning and Shaping

Pruning helps control height and encourages a bushier growth habit. Without it, your plant might become tall and leggy.

Timing: The best time to prune is in late spring or early summer.
Tools: Use clean, sharp pruning shears.
Method: Cut just above a leaf node (the point where a leaf attaches to the stem).
Result: This will prompt the plant to branch out from that point, creating a fuller look.

Don’t be afraid to prune; it’s good for the plant’s overall shape. You can also wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to keep them dust-free and shiny.

How to Propagate Your Plant

Creating new plants from your burgundy rubber plant is rewarding. The most reliable method is stem cuttings.

Take a cutting with at least 2-3 leaves and one node.
Let the milky sap dry for about an hour. This sap can be irritating, so wash your hands after handling.
Place the cutting in water or directly into moist soil.
If using water, change it weekly. Roots should appear in 3-6 weeks.
Once roots are a few inches long, pot the cutting into soil.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even easy plants can have issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems.

Yellowing Leaves

This is often a sign of overwatering. Check your watering schedule and ensure the pot has good drainage. Let the soil dry out more between waterings.

Dropping Leaves

Sudden leaf drop is usually caused by a change in environment. This could be a draft, a big temperature swing, or moving the plant to a new location. Try to find a stable spot and keep it there.

Pests

Watch for common houseplant pests like spider mites and mealybugs.

Signs: Look for webbing, tiny moving dots, or cottony masses on stems and leaves.
Treatment: Wipe leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Isolate the affected plant to prevent spreading.

Choosing the Right Pot and Repotting

Your plant will need repotting every 1-2 years, or when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes.

Choose a new pot that is only 1-2 inches larger in diameter.
Always use a pot with drainage holes.
Spring is the best time to repot, as the plant is entering its active growth phase.

Be gentle with the roots during the process. Fresh soil will provide new nutrients for your plant to thrive.

FAQ Section

Is the burgundy rubber plant toxic to pets?
Yes, it is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested due to the irritating sap. It’s best to keep it out of reach of curious pets.

How fast does a burgundy ficus grow?
In ideal conditions, it can grow quite quickly, adding a foot or more in a growing season. Growth slows in lower light.

Why are the leaves on my rubber plant not burgundy?
Insufficient light is the main cause. Move it to a brighter spot (with indirect light) to encourage the deep red coloration in new leaves.

Can I put my burgundy rubber plant outside?
You can in summer if you acclimate it slowly to outdoor conditions. Place it in a shaded, sheltered spot and bring it back inside before nighttime temperatures drop below 50°F.

How do I make my plant bushier?
Regular pruning is the answer. Cutting the top stem encourages lower buds to break, leading to a fuller, less leggy plant.

With it’s stunning foliage and resilient character, the burgundy rubber plant is a fantastic choice for both new and experienced plant owners. By following these simple care steps, you can enjoy this beautiful, air-purifying plant for many years to come. Remember, consistency is key—find a good spot and a good watering rhythm, and your plant will reward you with it’s spectacular color.