Ficus elastica Burgundy

Common Name:
Rubber Plant 'Burgundy'

Description:
Ficus elastica 'Burgundy', commonly known as Rubber Plant 'Burgundy', is a bold and dramatic indoor foliage plant admired for its thick, glossy, deep burgundy to near-black leaves. A popular cultivar of the classic Rubber Plant, this variety is especially valued for its intense, moody foliage, adding a rich, modern aesthetic to homes and interiors. In Melbourne, it thrives as an indoor feature plant, preferring bright, indirect light to maintain its rich colouring, though it can adapt to part shade. It performs best in well-drained soil and enjoys moderate watering—allowing the top few centimetres to dry out between drinks. The upright, tree-like form and slow but steady growth habit make it ideal as a statement plant in large pots. While flowering is extremely rare indoors, the Rubber Plant 'Burgundy' is grown entirely for its lush, sculptural foliage and low-maintenance nature. Regular wiping of leaves keeps them shiny and dust-free, and occasional pruning can help shape the plant as desired.

Form:
*Tree - Small (indoors)
*Shrub - Medium (in pot)
*Indoor Foliage Plant

Mature Size:
*Height: 1.2–2.5 m indoors (can be pruned to size)
*Width: 60–120 cm

Aspect:
*Part Shade
*Indoors / Well lit

Flowering:
*Does not flower under Melbourne's weather conditions

Flower Colour:
*Not applicable

Key Attributes:
*Suitable for Pots
*Suitable for Indoor Use
*Low Maintenance
*Air Purifying
*Perennial
*Sculptural Foliage
*Not frost tolerant

Toxicity:
*Toxic to pets (cats and dogs); may cause mouth irritation and vomiting if ingested
*Mildly toxic to humans; sap may cause skin irritation

Companion Plants:
*Zamioculcas zamiifolia (Zanzibar Gem)
*Monstera deliciosa
*Ficus lyrata (Fiddle Leaf Fig)
*Sansevieria trifasciata (Snake Plant)
*Philodendron 'Rojo Congo'