Ficus vs. Fiddle Leaf Fig: An In-Depth Comparison

Ficus and fiddle leaf figs are two popular choices when it comes to houseplants. With their large, dramatic leaves and tree-like shape, it’s easy to see the appeal But there’s some confusion over whether these plants are the same or different species Let’s take an in-depth look at ficus vs. fiddle leaf figs to understand their key similarities and differences.

What is a Ficus Plant?

Ficus is a diverse genus comprising over 800 species of woody trees, shrubs, and vines. Most ficus plants are native to tropical regions and adapted to warm, humid environments.

Some of the most popular ficus varieties kept as houseplants include

• Weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) – Features graceful, trailing branches and delicate, glossy green leaves.

• Rubber plant (Ficus elastica) – Has thick, leathery leaves and a tree-like shape when mature.

• Fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) – Known for its very large, violin-shaped leaves with prominent veining.

Ficus plants generally share some common traits such as being fast-growing, having milky sap, and being slightly toxic if ingested. They prefer bright, indirect light and humid conditions. With the right care, most ficus can grow into impressive statement trees in indoor environments.

What Defines a Fiddle Leaf Fig?

The fiddle leaf fig belongs to the Ficus genus but is a distinct species known scientifically as Ficus lyrata. As their common name suggests, fiddle leaf figs are easily recognized by their very large, fiddle or violin-shaped leaves that measure anywhere from 10-16 inches long.

Other characteristics that set the fiddle leaf fig apart include:

• Origins – Native to tropical rainforests of Western Africa.

• Mature Size – Grows up to 10-15 feet tall as a houseplant. Can reach over 40 feet in its native habitat.

• Growth Pattern – Features multiple stems and branches. Has a shrub-like growth habit.

• Light Requirements – Needs very bright, filtered light to thrive. More light-hungry than other ficus plants.

• Care Needs – Demanding of consistent, high humidity levels. Prone to leaf drop if conditions aren’t ideal.

So while the fiddle leaf fig belongs to the expansive Ficus genus, its distinct leaf shape, origins, growth pattern, and care needs set it apart as its own unique species.

Key Differences Between Ficus and Fiddle Leaf Figs

Now that we’ve defined what makes a ficus and a fiddle leaf fig, let’s compare some of the major factors that differentiate these popular houseplants.

Leaf Size and Shape

One of the biggest visible differences is in leaf size and shape. Most ficus varieties have relatively small, oval-shaped leaves while the fiddle leaf fig has extra large, violin-shaped leaves. Even large-leafed ficus like the rubber plant don’t come close the sheer size of a fiddle leaf fig’s iconic foliage.

Growth Pattern

Ficus plants generally have a single trunk and grow in a tall, columnar shape. The fiddle leaf fig has multiple stems and a more spreading, shrub-like form. It also tends to stay shorter when grown as a houseplant.

Light Requirements

While most ficus will tolerate low to medium indirect light, the fiddle leaf fig needs very bright, filtered light to thrive indoors. Insufficient light leads to leaf drop in fiddle leaf figs. Other ficus are more flexible.

Humidity Tolerance

The fiddle leaf fig prefers consistent humidity around 60-65% and is prone to crispy leaf margins and tip burn in dry indoor air. Most other ficus plants are a bit more tolerant of lower household humidity levels.

Ease of Care

Other than light and humidity needs, fiddle leaf figs require a bit more effort to keep happy and healthy indoors. Their large leaves collect dust quickly, they don’t like being moved, and they’ll drop leaves easily if growing conditions aren’t optimal. Other ficus can bounce back from stresses more readily.

Similarities Between Ficus and Fiddle Leaf Figs

While there are some clear differences, ficus plants and fiddle leaf figs share the following similarities:

• Both have large, glossy, deep green leaves.

• All prefer warm indoor temperatures between 60-80°F.

• They require frequent but moderate watering, allowing soil to partly dry out between waterings.

• Well-draining, loamy potting mix amended with perlite suits most varieties.

• Fertilizing every 2-4 weeks during the growing season is beneficial.

• Pruning and training can help manage size and shape for indoor growth.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Here are the recommended care guidelines for growing healthy ficus and fiddle leaf figs indoors:

Light: Southern or eastern exposure with bright, indirect sunlight. Fiddle leaf figs need 4-6 hours of daily direct sun. Other ficus do best with 2-4 hours of sun.

Temperature: Consistently warm between 60-80°F. Avoid drafty areas.

Humidity: Maintain 40-60% humidity. Fiddle leaf figs thrive around 60-65%. Mist leaves frequently.

Water: Allow soil to partly dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until it drains from holes.

Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix amended with perlite and orchid bark.

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks in the growing season.

Potting: Size up every 1-2 years until reaching desired height. Prune roots when repotting.

Choosing Between Ficus and Fiddle Leaf Figs

If you’re trying to decide between a ficus plant vs. a fiddle leaf fig, consider your growing conditions and care commitment.

Fiddle leaf figs make stunning statement plants but require very bright light and constant humidity to flourish. They also dislike being moved.

Other ficus like the rubber plant and weeping fig are a bit more forgiving and adaptable to typical indoor environments. Their smaller leaves also make them easier to manage.

No matter which you choose, provide the proper care detailed above and your ficus or fiddle leaf fig will reward you with lush, tropical elegance indoors. Just be sure to choose the variety that best matches your space and plant parenting style.