240 - 260cm XXL Ficus Elastica Tineke 30cm Pot House Plant

🌿 Ficus elastica ‘Tineke’ — Variegated Rubber Plant

Ficus elastica ‘Tineke’, also known as the Variegated Rubber Plant, is a beautifully patterned cultivar of the classic Ficus elastica, known for its broad, glossy leaves boldly variegated in shades of creamy white, soft green, and pale pink. Native to tropical Asia, this evergreen tree has been a favourite in interiors for decades due to its bold structure, low-maintenance nature, and strong architectural appeal. The ‘Tineke’ variety elevates the species with painted-look foliage and a modern aesthetic, making it a must-have for contemporary homes, plant stylists, and collectors. With proper light and minimal fuss, Ficus ‘Tineke’ will grow into an elegant upright shrub or small indoor tree, adding colour, pattern, and form to any space.

☀️ Light Requirements

• Indoors: Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain strong variegation.

• Too much sun: Harsh, direct sunlight may scorch the cream portions of the leaves.

• Too little light: Leads to loss of variegation and leggier growth.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Ideal temperature: 18–26°C (65–79°F)

• Minimum temperature: Keep above 13°C (55°F); protect from cold draughts and sudden changes.

• Humidity: Tolerant of average indoor humidity. Benefits from occasional misting, especially in dry homes.

💧 Watering Needs

• Watering frequency: Water when the top 5–7 cm of soil is dry. Keep soil lightly moist but never soggy.

• Winter: Reduce watering frequency as the plant enters a slower growth phase.

• Tip: Use room-temperature, filtered water to avoid leaf spotting.

🪴 Soil & Repotting

• Soil type: Well-draining houseplant compost with added perlite or bark for aeration.

• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

• Repotting: Every 1–2 years, or when rootbound. Spring is the best time to repot.

🌱 Feeding

• Growing season (spring–summer): Feed monthly with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser.

• Autumn–winter: Pause or reduce feeding if growth slows.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Pruning: Responds well to pruning. Cut back to shape or encourage branching.

• Leaf care: Wipe leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and reveal the beautiful variegation.

• Growth habit: Naturally upright and columnar — can be trained into a tree form or kept bushy.

🌾 Propagation

• Stem cuttings: Take semi-hardwood cuttings with at least one leaf and a node. Root in water or moist compost.

• Air layering: Effective for larger, more established plants.

🐛 Pests & Problems

• Common pests: Mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and aphids.

• Symptoms: Sticky leaves, leaf drop, or yellowing foliage.

• Treatment: Wipe leaves and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

• Common issues:

  • Leaf drop: Often due to overwatering or sudden environmental changes.

  • Loss of variegation: Caused by insufficient light — move to a brighter spot.

🧤 Toxicity & Safety

• Toxicity: Toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Contains a milky latex sap that can irritate skin and mucous membranes.

• Precaution: Keep out of reach of pets and children, and wear gloves when pruning.

🏡 Indoor Care Highlights

• A modern, low-maintenance foliage plant that delivers impact with minimal effort.

• Ideal for bright living rooms, bedrooms, offices, and plant-styled interiors.

• Pairs beautifully with minimalist décor and neutral tones to let the foliage shine.

• Works well as a floor plant in a ceramic pot or grouped with trailing species on raised stands.

• A perfect choice for both beginners and collectors looking to add colour and contrast.