Ficus Elastica Tineke

Plant name: Ficus Elastica ‘Tineke’

Scientific name: Ficus elastica ‘Tineke’

Plant description:
Ficus elastica ‘Tineke’ is a variegated rubber plant grown for its broad, glossy foliage and upright growth habit. This tropical evergreen develops a strong central stem with large leaves arranged alternately along the trunk. Its refined structure and distinctive coloration make it a popular choice for interior plant styling and statement containers.

Flower description:
Flowering is rare in indoor cultivation. In its natural environment, Ficus elastica produces small, enclosed fig-like inflorescences that are not showy. The plant is valued almost entirely for its foliage.

Leaf description:
Leaves are thick, oval, and leathery with a glossy surface. ‘Tineke’ features creamy white to light yellow margins blended with soft green centers, often flushed with hints of blush pink on new growth. Mature leaves can reach 8–12 inches long, creating a bold, architectural appearance.

Deciduous or evergreen:
Evergreen perennial in suitable climates and when grown indoors.

USDA grow zones:
USDA Zones 10–11 outdoors; commonly grown as a houseplant in all regions.

Mature height and width:
Indoors, typically reaches 4–8 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide with proper care. In outdoor tropical climates, plants can grow significantly larger.

Landscape uses:
Ideal for indoor containers, offices, entryways, and large decorative planters. Its upright habit and broad leaves make it effective as a floor plant or focal point in modern and tropical-themed interiors.

Native range:
Native to South and Southeast Asia.

Sun exposure:
Performs best in bright, indirect light. Strong filtered light helps maintain variegation and compact growth. Direct, intense sun can scorch leaves, while low light may reduce coloration and slow growth.

Water requirements:
Prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Allow the top 1–2 inches of soil to dry before watering again. Avoid consistently wet soil, which can lead to root problems. Reduce watering during cooler months when growth slows.

Pests and problems:
May be susceptible to spider mites, scale, and mealybugs, particularly in dry indoor environments. Overwatering can cause leaf drop and root rot. Sudden environmental changes may also result in leaf drop. The milky sap can irritate skin and should be handled with care.

Heat and sun tolerance: Cold tolerance:
Handles warm indoor temperatures well. Sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F, which may cause leaf damage or drop.

Growing tips:
Plant in a well-draining potting mix that allows air circulation around the roots. Rotate the plant periodically to encourage balanced growth. Wipe leaves occasionally to remove dust and maintain their glossy finish. Prune to control height and encourage branching if a fuller form is desired. Consistent light and stable indoor conditions support strong variegation and steady growth.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.