How long should it take for anew ruby ficus leaf to darke...
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@JPR It typically takes 2 to 3 weeks for a new Ficus elastica 'Ruby' leaf to fully unfurl, harden off, and transition from its bright, vibrant pink-red stage into its more muted, mature dark green, cream, and burgundy tones. Why the Color ChangesAnthocyanin Pigment: New leaves emerge with intense red or pink tones because of anthocyanin, a natural pigment that acts like sunscreen to protect vulnerable young tissue from bright light.Maturation Process: As the leaf finishes growing and hardening, the plant breaks down this protective pigment and increases chlorophyll production, causing the bright pink to mellow and darken.
