Ficus 1 to 14 of 14 total
Ficus 1 to 14 of 14 total
Ficus
About Ficus
Genus
Species
Family
Ficus
800+
Moraceae
Common Names:
Rubber Plant, Fig Tree
Native To:
Asia, Africa, Australia, Mediterranean region
Plant Type:
Houseplants
Foliage Type:
Evergreen (most species) or deciduous (Ficus carica)
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone:
9 - 12
Flower Color:
Insignificant (flowers are enclosed within the fruit, known as a syconium)
Flower Bloom Time:
Rarely blooms indoors; seasonal in natural habitats
Growth Habit:
Upright, Spreading, Climbing, Weeping
Attracts:
Pollinators (specific wasps for outdoor species like Ficus carica)
Tolerates:
Low Light (indoor varieties), Drought (once established), Urban Pollution
Resists:
Pests (relatively pest-free), Diseases
How To Use Ficus Indoors
Ficus plants, also called figs, include many types like trees, bushes, and vines. They are recognized for their glossy, oval-shaped leaves and unique growth patterns. Some species develop aerial roots that descend from branches, providing structural support and an intriguing visual appeal. These characteristics make Ficus plants a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor cultivation.
Ficus offers effective filtration of common indoor pollutants. The broad leaves help cleanse formaldehyde and similar chemicals, promoting a more refreshing environment. Position it in bright, indirect light, and be mindful that varieties like the Fiddle Leaf Fig can drop leaves if exposed to sudden temperature changes. Besides its practical benefits, these tropical trees provide a sense of calm while adding a stylish focal point to your living space.
Types of Ficus
| Type | Scientific Name | Native | Foliage | Habit | Special Care | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rubber Plant | Ficus elastica | NE India to Malaysia, Sumatra & Java (naturalized in tropics worldwide) | Thick, leathery, glossy elliptic leaves to 12 in.; many variegated cultivars | Broad-crowned banyan tree outdoors; tall cane-like houseplant | Bright indirect light; let topsoil dry; handle milky sap with care | Very tolerant; aerial-root “living bridges”; air-purifier |
| Fiddle-Leaf Fig | Ficus lyrata | Lowland rainforests of W & Central Africa | Huge violin-shaped leaves up to 18 in.; leathery with bold veins | Erect, vase-shaped tree to 100 ft outdoors; 2–10 ft houseplant | Dislikes moves or drafts; keep evenly moist, high light, high humidity | Dramatic sculptural foliage; popular designer statement |
| Triangle Fig | Ficus triangularis | South Africa | Waxy triangular leaves; variegated ‘Variegata’ edged cream | Graceful arching stems; columnar shrub to small tree | Bright filtered sun; allow ⅓ topsoil to dry; stake for form | Easier than most ficus; drought-tolerant; striking geometric look |
| Weeping Fig | Ficus benjamina | SE Asia & N. Australia | Narrow, glossy, pendulous leaves 2–4 in.; many variegates | Graceful drooping tree; can be braided; bonsai & hedge | Very sensitive to change—keep light & watering consistent | Excellent indoor air-cleanser; long-lived (20–50 yrs) |
| Chinese Banyan | Ficus microcarpa | India → China, SE Asia, W. Pacific, N. Australia | Leathery elliptic leaves 2–3 in.; dense, deep green | Massive banyan with innumerable aerial roots; street/bonsai tree | Warm temps > 68 °F; prune roots in pots; invasive roots outdoors | Shade superstar; easy bonsai “ginseng ficus”; used in folk medicine |
| Creeping Fig | Ficus pumila | China, Japan, Vietnam | Juvenile leaves heart-shaped 1 in.; mature leaves 3–4 in. | Fast, self-clinging vine; carpets walls & rocks | Partial shade, moist soil; trim to control; thrives in high humidity | Self-adheres like ivy; deer- & drought-tolerant; wall-cover classic |
Ficus Care
Ficus plants require well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Watering should be consistent, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to support healthy growth. Bright, indirect light is ideal; direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while insufficient light may cause leaf drop.
Place ficus outdoors once weather permits, providing bright yet indirect light to avoid leaf scorch. Brown edges often indicate low humidity, and dropping leaves can happen when Fiddle Leaf Figs face sudden environmental changes. Propagation involves cutting a healthy branch with two to three leaves, rooting it in water or soil, and transplanting once roots are established.
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