Ficus Elastica 'Burgundy'


Meet the dark and handsome star of the ficus family! Hailing from the tropical rainforests of South and Southeast Asia, Ficus Elastica 'Burgundy'—commonly known as the Burgundy Rubber Tree—boasts large, leathery, deep forest-green to near-black leaves with rich burgundy undersides. Emerging from bright crimson leaf sheaths, its glossy foliage brings dramatic depth and effortless architectural style into any room!

  • Toxic to pets and children
  • Repot once every 2 years
  • Fertilize once a month
  • Bright, indirect light
  • Average water

About Ficus Elastica 'Burgundy'

Origin

Native to the tropical regions of South and Southeast Asia, specifically India, Nepal, and Malaysia. 

Air Purifying

This bold, glossy amigo is a powerhouse air purifier, working overtime to scrub airborne toxins like formaldehyde out of your space while pumping out loads of fresh O2. 

Toxicity

Toxic to cats, dogs, and horses due to milky latex sap containing ficin and psoralens. Eating leaves can cause oral irritation, drooling, and vomiting, so keep this moody amigo away from curious pets!

Caring for Ficus Elastica 'Burgundy'

Watering

Water when the top 40–60% of the soil has dried out. These amigos love a consistent moisture routine—never let them sit in a soggy saucer, but avoid letting the soil turn bone-dry!

Light and Placement

Thrives best in bright, indirect light to keep those deep, moody burgundy colors rich and dark! A spot near an east-facing window or a few feet back from a south/west window is perfect. Too little light will cause those dark leaves to fade to plain green.

Nutrition

Treat them to a balanced liquid houseplant meal diluted to half-strength once a month during the spring and summer growing season. Skip the snacks during fall and winter.

Repotting

Repot every 1–2 years in spring when you notice roots peeking through the drainage holes or growth slowing down. Pick a sturdy pot 1–2 inches larger with a well-draining, chunky potting mix.

Pruning and Flowering

Indoor blooms are super rare! Prune in early spring to control height or notch the main stem to encourage branching and a bushier canopy. Just be sure to wear gloves to avoid sticky white sap on your hands! 

Ficus Elastica 'Burgundy' SOS

Illness

Watch out for scale, mealybugs, or spider mites on those big leaves (wipe them down with a damp cloth monthly to keep them dust-free!). Overwatering can cause lower leaves to turn yellow and drop off.

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