Ficus elastica 'Tineke', widely sold as the variegated rubber plant, is a striking tropical houseplant grown for its large, glossy leaves splashed with cream, green and blush pink.

It grows upright with a tree-like habit, building a strong central stem as it matures, which makes it a good statement plant for a living room, bedroom or home office rather than a small space filler.

Plants arrive well established in a 12cm pot. Give it a bright spot with indirect light, away from strong direct afternoon sun which can scorch the variegated leaves, and keep it somewhere draught-free with a steady temperature. This plant dislikes being moved once settled and can drop leaves in response to a change of position, a cold draught or a chill, so choose a permanent spot rather than shifting it around.

Water moderately, letting the top inch or so of compost dry out between waterings, feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 3 to 4 weeks through the growing season, and repot every 1 to 2 years as roots fill the pot. Occasional misting helps in centrally heated rooms over winter.

Ficus elastica is toxic to cats and dogs if chewed or eaten, so keep it out of their reach.

Cultural Information

• Common Name: Variegated Rubber Plant
• Fully Grown Height and Spread: Up to 2-3m tall indoors (conditions dependent)
• Growth Habit: Upright, tree-like
• Perfect For: Living rooms, bedrooms, home offices, statement indoor displays
• Foliage: Large, glossy, variegated leaves in cream, green and blush pink
• Planting Position: Bright, indirect light; avoid direct afternoon sun and cold draughts
• Soil Type: Well-draining compost
• Hardiness: Indoor plant only (RHS H1b); keep above 10C and away from cold draughts
• Maintenance: Water moderately, feed every 3-4 weeks in the growing season, repot every 1-2 years; sensitive to being moved or chilled
• Type: Tropical evergreen houseplant