All three varieties—Burgundy, Tineke, and Ruby—are cultivated forms of the same species, *Ficus elastica*. This places them within the Moraceae (fig) family. They share fundamental anatomical characteristics: a robust, upright growth habit, large, thick, oval to elliptical leaves with a pronounced acuminate tip (drip tip), and a leathery texture. The leaves emerge from a protective sheath called a stipule, which is often reddish and dries off as the new leaf unfurls. As members of the *Ficus* genus, they also produce a characteristic milky white latex sap when wounded, which is a defensive mechanism against herbivores and helps seal injuries.
The primary botanical difference between the Tineke and Ruby varieties lies in their leaf variegation patterns, which are caused by a genetic mutation affecting chlorophyll production. Both are variegated cultivars. The Ficus elastica 'Tineke' displays patches of white or cream coloration alongside shades of green. This lack of chlorophyll in the white sectors means those specific leaf areas cannot perform photosynthesis, making the plant slightly more sensitive to light as it relies on the green parts for energy.
Ficus elastica 'Ruby' is essentially a sport (a genetic mutation) of the 'Tineke' variety. Its defining feature is the presence of anthocyanin pigments, which overlay the variegation pattern. These pigments manifest as vibrant pink and red hues, particularly on new growth and within the creamy-white sections of the leaf. The 'Ruby' requires even brighter, indirect light than the 'Tineke' to maintain this intense coloration, as lower light conditions will cause it to revert to a more green-dominated appearance to maximize photosynthetic efficiency.
In contrast to the variegated varieties, Ficus elastica 'Burgundy' (also known as 'Abidjan') is not variegated. Its striking appearance is due to a high concentration of anthocyanins, the same pigments that give red grapes and autumn leaves their color. These pigments are present throughout the leaf tissue, dominating the chlorophyll and resulting in a deep, uniform burgundy-green to almost blackish-purple coloration, especially on new foliage which can emerge a vivid, glossy red. From a plant's perspective, anthocyanins are thought to act as a sunscreen, protecting the leaf's photosynthetic apparatus from damage by excessive light, and may also play a role in deterring pests.
These pigment variations lead to different physiological needs. The solid green and burgundy varieties possess the most chlorophyll per leaf area, making them the most efficient at photosynthesis and therefore the most tolerant of lower light conditions. The variegated Tineke and Ruby have reduced chlorophyll due to their white sectors, necessitating placement in brighter indirect light to sustain growth rates and prevent legginess. The Ruby's additional anthocyanins may offer some photoprotection, but its high-contrast leaves are still less efficient at energy production than a solid green leaf. All varieties share a susceptibility to overwatering, as their thick, fleshy roots and leaves are adapted to store water, making well-draining soil a critical component of their cultivation.
