Ficus vs Fiddle Leaf Fig: What’s the Difference?

Ficus and fiddle leaf fig plants are two popular choices for houseplant enthusiasts. With their large, dramatic leaves and tree-like shape, it’s easy to see why these plants are so sought-after. But there’s often confusion about whether ficus and fiddle leaf figs are different species or just varieties of the same plant. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the key similarities and differences between ficus and fiddle leaf figs.

What is a Ficus Plant?

Ficus is a large genus with more than 800 species of woody trees, shrubs, and vines. Most ficus plants are native to tropical areas and have adapted to living in warm, damp places.

Some of the most popular ficus houseplants include

• Weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) – Features graceful, trailing branches and glossy, oval-shaped leaves.
• Rubber plant (Ficus elastica) – Has thick, rubbery leaves and develops a tree-like shape when mature.
• Fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) – Known for very large, violin-shaped leaves with prominent veining.

Like most ficus trees, they grow quickly, have milky sap, and are slightly poisonous if eaten. They prefer bright, indirect light and high humidity. Most types of ficus can grow into beautiful indoor trees with the right care.

Defining the Fiddle Leaf Fig

Ficus lyrata is the scientific name for the fiddle leaf fig, which is in the Ficus genus but a different species. As the common name suggests, fiddle leaf figs are easy to spot because their leaves are shaped like violins and are 10 to 16 inches long.

Other distinguishing features include:

• Origins – Native to tropical rainforests of Western Africa.
• Mature size – Grows up to 10-15 feet indoors. Can reach over 40 feet tall in native habitat.
• Growth pattern – Has multiple stems and branches. More shrub-like than other ficus.
• Light needs – Requires very bright, filtered light to thrive. More light-hungry than other ficus.
• Care needs – Demands consistent, high humidity. Prone to leaf drop if conditions aren’t ideal.

So while the fiddle leaf fig is a type of ficus, its unique leaf shape, origins, growth habit, and care needs set it apart as a distinct species.

Key Differences Between Ficus and Fiddle Leaf Figs

Now that we’ve defined ficus and fiddle leaf figs, let’s compare some major factors that set them apart:

Leaf Size and Shape

One obvious visible difference is leaf size and shape. Most ficus have relatively small, oval leaves while the fiddle leaf fig has extra large, violin-shaped leaves. Even large-leafed ficus like the rubber plant don’t compare to the huge foliage of the fiddle leaf fig.

Growth Pattern

Ficus generally grow with a single trunk and columnar shape. The fiddle leaf fig has multiple stems and a shrubby, spreading form, staying shorter than other ficus indoors.

Light Needs

The fiddle leaf fig needs very bright filtered light to grow well, while most ficus can handle low to medium indirect light. Fiddle leaf figs lose their leaves when they don’t get enough light, but most other ficus trees can handle it better.

Humidity Tolerance

The fiddle leaf fig prefers steady 60-65% humidity and is prone to crispy leaf margins and tip burn in dry air. Other ficus plants tolerate lower household humidity a bit better.

Ease of Care

Beyond light and humidity needs, fiddle leaf figs take more effort to keep happy indoors. Their large leaves collect dust quickly, they dislike being moved, and they’ll readily drop leaves if conditions aren’t ideal. Other ficus bounce back from stresses more easily.

Similarities Between Ficus and Fiddle Leaf Figs

While there are clear differences, ficus and fiddle leaf figs share these similarities:

• Both have large, glossy, deep green leaves.
• All prefer warm indoor temperatures from 60-80°F.
• They need infrequent but deep watering, allowing soil to partly dry out.
• Well-draining, loamy potting mix amended with perlite suits most.
• Fertilizing every 2-4 weeks during growing season is beneficial.
• Pruning and training can 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 sun. Fiddle leaf figs need 4-6 hours of direct sun. Other ficus do best with 2-4 hours of direct sunlight.

Temperature

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

Humidity

Maintain 40-60% humidity. Fiddle leaf figs thrive around 60-65% humidity. 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 during the growing season.

Potting

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

Choosing Between Ficus vs. Fiddle Leaf Figs

When deciding between ficus vs. fiddle leaf figs, consider your growing conditions and commitment level.

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

Other ficus like rubber plants and weeping figs are more forgiving and adaptable to typical indoor environments. Their smaller leaves also make them easier to manage.

Whichever you choose, provide proper care and your ficus or fiddle leaf fig will reward you with lush, tropical elegance indoors. Just pick the variety that best suits your space and plant parenting approach.