How to prune burgundy rubber plant

Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To reduce height or encourage branching, cut the main stem just above a leaf node using a clean, sharp blade. Wear gloves — the white latex sap is irritating. Wipe cut surfaces with a damp cloth. New shoots typically emerge from the node below the cut within a few weeks.

Rarely — only when height control or branching is desired. Ficus elastica 'Burgundy' rarely needs pruning indoors. Prune only if the plant becomes too tall, leggy, or you want to encourage branching. Pinching or cutting the growing tip prompts lateral buds to break. Beyond that, remove dead or yellowing leaves as they appear. The milky sap is a skin and eye irritant — wear gloves.

To reduce height or encourage branching, cut the main stem just above a leaf node using a clean, sharp blade. Wear gloves — the white latex sap is irritating. Wipe cut surfaces with a damp cloth. New shoots typically emerge from the node below the cut within a few weeks.