Table of Contents
- Ficus elastica ‘Tineke’:
- Ficus elastica ‘Ruby’:
- Ficus elastica ‘Burgundy’:
- Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata):
- Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina):
- Ficus benghalensis (aka Ficus Audrey):
- Chinese Banyan (Ficus Microcarpa):
Ficus trees are popular choices among houseplant enthusiasts due to their attractive foliage, adaptability, and relatively easy care requirements. Ficus, also known as fig trees, are a genus of plants that belong to the Moraceae family. They come in various sizes, shapes, and colors, making them versatile plants to decorate your home. In this article, we will explore the seven best types of Ficus trees that thrive in home environments. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced plant fanatic, these ficus varieties will add a unique beauty and vibrancy to your indoor space.
Ficus elastica ‘Tineke’:
With its striking, tri-colored, variegated leaves, Ficus elastica ‘Tineke’ is a visually captivating choice for any indoor garden. Its large, glossy leaves are splashed with shades of green, cream, and pink. The foliage can brown in strong direct sunlight so bright indirect is better. These vibrant, multi-colored, trees are perfect for living room spaces, bedrooms, and even offices. With proper pruning they can be as small or large as you would like to perfectly fit in your space.
Ficus elastica ‘Ruby’:
Ficus elastica ‘Ruby’ is renowned for its deep red and burgundy variegated foliage, which adds a touch of elegance and drama to any indoor space. This colorful variety is relatively compact and grows well in bright, indirect light. Its thick, vibrant, leaves create a striking contrast against light-colored walls or furniture. Like other ficus species, ‘Ruby’ can be pruned to fit your space perfectly.
Ficus elastica ‘Burgundy’:
Featuring rich, dark green leaves with hints of burgundy on the stem and underside, Ficus elastica ‘Burgundy’ is an eye-catching ficus tree that adds a touch of sophistication to any room. This variety is particularly well-suited to bright, indirect light conditions and requires minimal maintenance. Its upright growth habit makes it an ideal choice for small spaces or as a focal point in larger rooms. Regardless of the room, these broad leaves can always benefit from a good dusting.
Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata):
The Fiddle Leaf Fig is a beloved ficus tree known for its large, violin-shaped leaves. Its iconic foliage and tall, slender trunk make it a popular choice for interior decoration. The Ficus lyrata thrives in bright, indirect light and moderate humidity levels. Regular pruning and proper watering are essential for maintaining its majestic appearance. A well-cared-for Fiddle Leaf Fig can become a stunning centerpiece in any room. They come in a large form and a dwarf form that stays smaller so you can choose which size will work best for your space. Regardless of size, this particular ficus is more sensitive to temperature changes then the others. It is especially sensitive to cold and can drop leaves if not kept warm.
Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina):
Ficus benjamina, commonly known as the Weeping Fig, is a classic and elegant choice for indoor greenery. It features graceful, thin, branches covered in delicate, glossy green leaves. This Ficus variety adapts well to a variety of light conditions, from bright indirect light to partial shade and does require slightly more watering then the others due to its thinner more delicate leaves. They tend to need less pruning then other Ficus and fill a space nicely with little effort.
Ficus benghalensis (aka Ficus Audrey):
This Ficus has large, leathery, emerald green leaves that add a touch of tropical charm to any indoor setting. This variety prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Ficus Audrey is a relatively low-maintenance ficus tree that adds a fresh, vibrant, tropical atmosphere to your living space. One of the fastest growing ficus, Audrey also has incredible, soft, fuzzy, new leaves when they first come out adding a whole other texture and depth to the room. This is especially fantastic for plant parents that love to feel fuzzy foliage.
Chinese Banyan (Ficus Microcarpa):
Ficus Microcarpa, commonly referred to as the Chinese Banyan, is a unique and versatile tree that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Its small, glossy leaves, and enormous aerial roots, create an unique, jaw dropping, display. The Chinese Banyan adapts well to a variety of light conditions and is relatively forgiving when it comes to watering. This Ficus variety is an excellent choice for bonsai enthusiasts or those looking to bring a touch of true nature into their home. They are also known as the Ginseng Ficus and can be often found as smaller bonsai with thick, bulbous, roots. They respond well to pruning and shaping. Generally, this keeps them smaller so they fit on shelves, desks, and small tables very nicely while still adding a lush green to your space.
When it comes to choosing the best Ficus trees to grow at home, these seven varieties offer an array of stunning features and benefits. Each Ficus tree brings its unique charm to indoor spaces. Not only do these Ficus trees enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, but they also contribute to a healthier living environment. Along with their mental health benefits these Ficus varieties have been carefully selected based on their adaptability to different light conditions, making them suitable for a wide range of home environments.
The low maintenance requirements of these ficus trees make them spectacular choices for both experienced and novice plant enthusiasts. While some varieties may require regular pruning or more frequent watering routines, overall, Ficus trees are known for their resilience and ability to withstand varying conditions. By incorporating these Ficus trees into your home, you can create a visually stunning, lush, and unique indoor space that will be a source of health and joy for generations to come.
