Why Are Your Burgundy Rubber Plant Leaves Curling

Rubber plants (Ficus elastica) are popular indoor plants known for their hardiness and attractive foliage. Among the different varieties of rubber plants, the burgundy rubber plant is sought after for its deep red-purple leaves that add a pop of color to any room. However, if you notice that your burgundy rubber plant’s leaves are curling, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. In this article, we’ll explore some possible reasons why your burgundy rubber plant leaves are curling and what you can do to remedy the situation.

Overwatering

Overwatering is one of the most common reasons why rubber plant leaves curl. When you water your plant too frequently or give it too much water at once, it can lead to root rot, which in turn affects the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients and water from the soil. The lack of nutrients and water causes the leaves to curl as a way of conserving moisture.

To check if your plant is overwatered, gently lift it out of its pot and examine the roots. If they are brown and mushy, then they have rotted due to excess moisture. To fix this issue, repot your burgundy rubber plant in fresh soil and make sure to water it sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Underwatering

Underwatering is another common cause of leaf curling in rubber plants. When a plant doesn’t receive enough water, it will conserve moisture by curling its leaves. In addition, dry air can also cause leaf curling in rubber plants.

To determine if your plant is underwatered, check the soil’s moisture level by sticking your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry, then your plant needs watering. To remedy this issue, water your burgundy rubber plant thoroughly and increase humidity levels around the plant by misting it with water or placing a humidifier nearby.

Pests

Pests such as spider mites and mealybugs can also cause leaf curling in rubber plants. These pests feed on the sap of the plant and weaken its overall health. As a result, the leaves may curl or appear distorted.

To check if your burgundy rubber plant has pests, inspect its leaves for tiny webs or cotton-like formations. You may also notice small insects crawling on the leaves or stems. To get rid of these pests, wipe down your plant’s leaves with a damp cloth or use an insecticidal soap spray.

Temperature Stress

Rubber plants prefer warm temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). If your burgundy rubber plant is exposed to temperatures outside this range or experiences sudden temperature changes such as drafts from windows or doors, it may respond by curling its leaves.

To remedy this issue, move your rubber plant away from drafty areas or windows and keep it in a room with a consistent temperature.

Lack of Nutrients

A lack of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium, and magnesium can cause leaf curling in rubber plants. This deficiency often results from using poor quality soil or not fertilizing your plant regularly.

To address this issue, repot your burgundy rubber plant in nutrient-rich soil and fertilize it according to its needs. You can use a balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

FAQ

Q: Is it normal for burgundy rubber plant leaves to curl?

A: No, it is not normal for burgundy rubber plant leaves to curl. Curling leaves are often a sign that something is wrong with the plant’s growing conditions.

Q: Can over-fertilizing cause leaf curling in rubber plants?

A: Yes, over-fertilizing can cause leaf curling in rubber plants as it leads to a buildup of salts in the soil that can damage the roots and affect nutrient absorption.

Q: How often should I water my burgundy rubber plant?

A: Water your burgundy rubber plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot and leaf curling.

Q: Can I grow my burgundy rubber plant outdoors?

A: Burgundy rubber plants can be grown outdoors in warm climates where temperatures remain above freezing year-round. However, they prefer bright indirect light and protection from direct sunlight.