Troubleshooting
Ficus Abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) problems — and how to fix them
Ficus Abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) (Ficus elastica 'Abidjan') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Leaf drop after moving
Like all rubber plants, 'Abidjan' sulks after relocation or a change in conditions; keep care steady and give it 3-4 weeks to settle.
Yellowing lower leaves
Usually overwatering or soggy compost; let the top of the soil dry out and check the pot drains freely.
Brown patches on leaves
Sunburn from direct sun, or cold-draught damage; move away from hot windows and chilly doorways.
New leaves greener, not burgundy
Too little light; move to a brighter spot with strong indirect light to restore the dark colouring.
Sticky leaves, fine webbing or bumps
Sap-sucking pests such as scale, mealybugs or spider mites, encouraged by dry air; wipe leaves and treat early.
Prevent ficus abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) problems before they start
Most ficus abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common rubber plant problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- PictureThis alternatives — 7 plant ID apps compared
- Ficus Abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) watering schedule
- Ficus Abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) light requirements
- Best soil mix for ficus abidjan (burgundy rubber plant)
- Ficus Abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) temperature & humidity
- Full ficus abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) care guide
Ficus Abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) problems — FAQ
Why is my ficus abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) leaf drop after moving?
Like all rubber plants, 'Abidjan' sulks after relocation or a change in conditions; keep care steady and give it 3-4 weeks to settle.
Why is my ficus abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) yellowing lower leaves?
Usually overwatering or soggy compost; let the top of the soil dry out and check the pot drains freely.
Why is my ficus abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) brown patches on leaves?
Sunburn from direct sun, or cold-draught damage; move away from hot windows and chilly doorways.
Why is my ficus abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) new leaves greener, not burgundy?
Too little light; move to a brighter spot with strong indirect light to restore the dark colouring.
Why is my ficus abidjan (burgundy rubber plant) sticky leaves, fine webbing or bumps?
Sap-sucking pests such as scale, mealybugs or spider mites, encouraged by dry air; wipe leaves and treat early.