Ficus Elastica Tineke vs Ruby

Comparing Ficus Elastica Tineke and Ruby is a hyped topic throughout plant-loving communities. When one thinks of the standard choice for indoor house plants, it is likely that the Ficus Elastica Tineke or Ruby.

Both are members of the fig genus; however, there are slight differences. Such as when looking at the prices, Ficus Elastica Ruby plants cost more than the Tineke plant. On the other hand, Tineke plants are easier to find.

When figuring out which plant is a better suit for your house, it takes more than just those differences to make your mind, which is why we tell you about the various pointers to look out for in this written piece. Our information comes from experts who have been associated with plants for years.

Ficus Elastica Tineke vs Ruby

Key Differences Between Ficus Elastica Tineke and Ruby

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Visuals

The most apparent dissimilarity you can spot between these two plants is their color. Any individual who can see colors can differentiate these plants by looking at them.

  • The Ficus Elastica Tineke has green and cream-colored leaves with pinkish veins. The baby leaves, or the growing leaves, will get a pinkish tint that fades over time.
  • On the other hand, the leaves of Ficus Elastica Ruby are a mix of purple, cream, green, and pink colors. The new sprouts are strikingly vivid, contributing an excellent visual focus to this variety.

Price

People tend to think it is not so expensive when it comes to planting. However, many plants can be pretty costly to buy and maintain.

  • Ficus ElasticaTineke is not so expensive. You may find a mid-size Tineke plant for $20 to $45.
  • On the other hand, Ficus Elastica Ruby is more costly than Tineke. You may have to spend $30 to $100 for a mid-sized Ruby plant.

A good thing to note would be that the prices may vary depending on which country you live in.

Availability

Eight out of tenplant stores sell both Tineke and Ruby. But one is more available than the other.

  • Ficus Elastica Tineke can be found anywhere in the world.
  • Ficus Elastica Ruby can be hard to find in some places.

Sheath

The various sheaths of the Ficus Elastica variety are seldom misinterpreted for flowers, although the sheath is the tree’s protective layer for each of the developing leaves.

Both species have sheaths that grow in the same way from the main stem or the branch.           

  • Ficus Elastica Tineke grows greenish sheaths.
  • Ficus Elastica Ruby develops pinkish or red sheaths.

Similarities in Ficus ElasticaTineke and Ruby

There are quite a few differences between Ficus Elastica Tineke and Ruby. Now, let us dive in and see these two plants’ similarities.

Water

The volume of water required depends on plant and container size, the surrounding air temperature, and the desired location. Hence, if your Tineke plant requires deep watering every week, your Ruby plant will need the same amount.

Lighting

It is essential to consider that a specific range of rubber plants will not flourish without sufficient lighting. An unfortunate misunderstanding is that rubber plants of all kinds like to live in the dark. This is not the case! While your Ficus Elastica plant can survive in the dark, it will not help the plant develop ideally.

Heat tolerance

What conditions do rubber plants like? It is a common question. Both Ficus Elastica Tineke and Ficus Elastica Ruby can be exposed to mild frost or freezing temperatures, but nothing longer than a few minutes. They are comfortable in a temperature range ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18 to 27°C).

Growth Habit

Ficus elastica is indigenous to the region of India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Java, where it flourishes in moist, warm environments with plenty of sunshine.

In these ecosystems, both Ficus Elastica Tineke and Ficus Elastica Ruby can add up to 24 inches to their height over the course of one season. It develops tall trees that reach heights of 100 feet or more.

Potting

All Elastica plants love well moist pots that are not overly wet or soggy. Root rot is caused when the roots of your Ficus Elastica get too wet too fast. For the absolute most optimal growth, drainage is critical.

Ficus Elastica thrives when it is set in a little pot. If you want to stimulate your plant to grow at a better rate, you might want to change the pot into a bigger one.

Size

All types of Ficus elastica can grow very large within their natural environment, even attaining approximately 100 feet in around 13 years.

Home plants that require development in pots are often smaller in size, making them more manageable for homeowners.

Leaves

The leaves of both plants are similar looking. Large and oval-shaped, elongated, and pointed at the end. They are also chunky and have a wax-like coating, but the only difference is the color they develop.

Flower

In the wild, both Ficus ElasticaTineke and Ruby produce tiny fruits that are not visible. Moreover, indoor Ficus ElasticaTineke and Ruby rarely produce any fruit. Also, none of these plants produce any fragrant flowers.

5 Tips to Take Care of Ficus Elastica Tineke and Ruby

Temperature

There is a debate on what conditions rubber plants like. It is proven that Ficus Elastica Tineke and Ruby do not like the cold environment. These plants prefer to live in a warm and cozy home. Avoid keeping them near air conditioners and other cold places if you have these plants.

Lighting

Rubber plants love the brightness, but they prefer indirect light. If you keep the plants under direct sunlight, the color of the leaf will fade. So, what can you do when there is no sunlight in winter? We suggest purchasing lights from stores. That way, your plant’s color will not fade away.

Watering

It is okay if you underwater your plants. However, overwatering is a common mistake we all make at some point.

Rubber plants prefer moist potting. Overwatering can cause your plant’s roots to start rot. Hence, it is always best if you water your houseplants carefully. There are moist meters that you can find in the stores. Those can help you to measure the dampness of your potting.

FAQs

Is Ficus Tineke rare?

Ficus Tineke is not rare. It is a type of fig tree that can be found in many tropical climates around the world.

Is Ficus Tineke easy?

Ficus Tineke, or weeping fig, is relatively easy to keep. It is a low-maintenance plant that does well in most conditions. This plant requires little water and will grow in indirect light.

Is Ficus Tineke toxic to dogs?

Ficus Tineke is a plant that can be toxic to dogs. A good idea would be to keep it out of reach of your dog, and if you suspect they have eaten some, contact your vet.

Final Words

Ficus Tineke and Ruby are the typical choices for rubber plants. These low-maintenance plants are best for those new to gardening and indoor planting. Even though Tineke and Ruby look different, they have similarities. Today’s article on Ficus Elastica Tineke and Ruby should help you learn about these plants even more.

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