sunburn on Ficus Elastica
Quick answer
If your Ficus Elastica has sunburn, the most likely cause is: Sunburn (photo-oxidative stress) occurs when a Rubber Plant is suddenly exposed to direct midday sun, especially in hot climates or high altitudes. Symptoms include bleached, papery, or crispy brown patches on the leaves. Variegated cultivars like 'Tineke' are highly susceptible as their white sections lack protective chlorophyll.
Start here:
- 1. Immediate shade: Move the plant to a spot with bright indirect light (no direct rays).
- 2. Wait and watch: Do not immediately prune leaves that still have green tissue; they are still providing energy for recovery.
Why Ficus Elastica gets sunburn
Ficus elastica
Sunburn (photo-oxidative stress) occurs when a Rubber Plant is suddenly exposed to direct midday sun, especially in hot climates or high altitudes. Symptoms include bleached, papery, or crispy brown patches on the leaves. Variegated cultivars like 'Tineke' are highly susceptible as their white sections lack protective chlorophyll.
How to reverse sunburn on Ficus Elastica
- 1
Immediate shade: Move the plant to a spot with bright indirect light (no direct rays).
- 2
Wait and watch: Do not immediately prune leaves that still have green tissue; they are still providing energy for recovery.
- 3
Remove total loss: Only prune leaves that are completely brown and crispy to reduce pest risk.
- 4
Mist for cooling: Use a fine mist to cool the leaf surface during extreme heatwaves (>90�F).
Keep sunburn off this Ficus Elastica
Acclimate to more light gradually over 14 days (increase exposure by 1 hour daily). Use sheer curtains to filter southern or western windows. Maintain 50-60% humidity to buffer heat stress.