Last Updated on June 29, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
If you’re looking for an interesting and exotic plant to add to your home or office, a ficus tree may be the perfect choice. There are many different types of ficus trees, and they vary in terms of size, care requirements, and appearance.
In this blog post, we will provide an overview of ficus trees, including information on the different types available and how to care for them. We’ll also discuss some of the benefits of having a ficus tree in your space. So if you’re thinking about adding a ficus tree to your life, keep reading!
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What is a ficus tree?
A ficus tree is a tropical plant that belongs to the mulberry family. The ficus tree is native to Asia, Africa, and Australia. The ficus tree can grow up to 50 feet tall and has glossy green leaves.
The ficus tree is known for its ability to produce fruit all year round. The fruit of the ficus tree is small and red. The ficus tree is a popular houseplant because it is easy to care for and does not require a lot of sunlight.
The ficus tree is a popular choice for bonsai because it can be trained to grow in different shapes. The ficus tree is also used in traditional medicine. The bark of the ficus tree is used to treat diarrhea and the leaves are used to treat wounds.
Facts about ficus trees.
Did you know that ficus trees are native to the tropics? They’re a popular houseplant because they’re easy to care for and can tolerate low light conditions. Here are a few more interesting facts about these fascinating plants!
Ficus trees belong to the Moraceae family, which includes over 750 species of plants.
Ficus trees are found in a wide range of climates, from tropical rainforests to semi-deserts.
Ficus trees are fast-growing plants and can reach heights of 30–40 meters (100–130 feet) in the wild.
The ficus tree is considered sacred in many cultures and has been used in religious ceremonies for centuries.
Ficus trees are home to a wide variety of animals, including birds, bats, and monkeys.
Ficus tree meaning.
The ficus tree is a popular indoor plant and has many different meanings. The ficus tree can represent new beginnings, fertility, and good luck. The ficus tree is also said to bring peace and calm to those who have it in their home. If you are looking for a plant that will bring positive energy into your home, the ficus tree is a great choice.
How to identify a ficus tree.
Ficus trees are easily distinguished by their leaves. The leaves of a ficus tree are large and leathery, and they grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves of a ficus tree are also glossy, and they have a distinctive veining pattern.
The bark of a ficus tree is smooth and brown, and the branches of a ficus tree are stout and sturdy. If you see a tree with these characteristics, then it is likely a ficus tree.
Ficus trees are also distinguished by their fruit. The fruit of a ficus tree is small and fleshy, and it grows in clusters. The fruit of a ficus tree is also edible, and it has a sweet taste. If you see a tree with these characteristics, then it is likely a ficus tree.
Types of Ficus Trees.
Ficus trees are a popular type of tree to grow indoors. They are beautiful and can add a tropical feel to any home. There are many different types of ficus trees, each with its own unique features.
1. African Fig Tree (Ficus cyathistipula).
The African fig tree is a species of flowering plant in the Moraceae family, native to Africa. The African fig tree is a large evergreen tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall.
The leaves of the African fig tree are oblong-shaped and glossy green in color. The fruits of the African fig tree are small, red, and edible.
The African fig tree is a popular landscaping plant in Africa and Australia. The African fig tree is also used as a food source for humans and animals.
The leaves of the African fig tree are used to make a tea, which is said to have medicinal properties. The bark of the African fig tree is used to make a fiber that is used in the textile industry.
The African fig tree is an important tree in many African cultures. The African fig tree is considered to be a sacred tree by the Swazi people of Africa. The African fig tree is also a symbol of strength and fertility.
2. Audrey ficus (Ficus benghalensis).
It is a beautiful, large leafed tree that is perfect for any home or office. It grows quickly and can reach heights of up to 30 feet (or more with proper pruning)! The leaves are glossy and the branches are strong, making it a great tree for any space.
The Audrey ficus tree is native to India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. It is also known as the banyan tree, Indian fig tree, orstrangler fig. The tree gets its name from the Sanskrit word “vata”, which means “banyan tree”.
The Audrey ficus is a popular choice for indoor plants because it is easy to care for and does not require a lot of light. It is also a low-maintenance plant, which makes it ideal for those who do not have a lot of time to care for their plants.
3. Banana leaf fig (Ficus maclellandii).
It is a tropical tree that is native to the countries of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. It grows up to 30 meters (98 feet) tall and has large, leathery leaves that are up to 60 centimeters (24 inches) long and 20 centimeters (eight inches) wide.
The tree’s trunk is covered with a thick layer of brown or gray bark. The tree’s branches grow outward from the trunk at a 45-degree angle.
The banana leaf fig tree is an evergreen tree, meaning that it has leaves all year round. The tree produces small, yellowish-green flowers that grow in clusters. The flowers are followed by small, green fruits that turn yellow or red when they are ripe.
The tree is grown in tropical regions for its wood, which is used to make furniture and other products. The tree’s leaves are also used as plates and bowls in some cultures. The tree’s fruits are eaten fresh or made into preserves.
4. Burgundy Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica ‘Burgundy’).
It is a cultivar of the popular Rubber Tree, Ficus elastica. The Burgundy has deep purple, almost black leaves with burgundy stems. It is a stunning addition to any indoor space and makes a great houseplant.
Native to tropical regions of Asia, the Rubber Tree is part of the Moraceae family which includes over 800 species of plants. The Rubber Tree is a fast-growing, evergreen tree that can reach up to 50 feet tall in its native habitat.
The Burgundy Rubber Tree is a relatively new cultivar that was developed in Europe in the early 2000s. It has quickly become a popular houseplant and is now widely available.
This beautiful plant is easy to care for and makes a great addition to any indoor space. If you are looking for a plant that will make a statement, the Burgundy Rubber Tree is the perfect choice!
5. Clown Fig (Ficus aspera parcelli).
Clown figs are a type of ficus tree that is native to Malaysia. The clown fig gets its name from the large, white flowers that bloom on the tree. The flowers resemble clowns with their big red noses.
Clown figs are not commonly found in nurseries or gardens. This is because they can be difficult to grow. Clown figs need a lot of sunlight and water. They also need to be fertilized regularly.
If you are thinking about growing a clown fig, make sure you have the right environment for it. Clown figs can reach up to 30 feet tall, so make sure you have enough space for it to grow.
6. Common Fig (Ficus carica).
The common fig tree is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall. The leaves are large, lobed, and have a leathery texture. The fruit of the common fig tree is oblong or pear-shaped, and the skin is greenish-yellow with a pink or purple blush. The flesh of the fruit is pink or red, and the seeds are small and black.
The common fig tree is native to the Mediterranean region, and has been cultivated for centuries. The fruit of the common fig tree is a popular ingredient in many dishes, and the leaves are used as decoration or wrapping material. Fig trees can be found in many gardens and public parks.
7. Council Tree (Ficus altissima).
A council tree is a type of Fig tree that is found in tropical regions. The tree gets its name from the way the leaves are arranged on the branches, which resembles a council or meeting.
The council tree is an evergreen tree that can grow to be about 30 meters tall. The trunk of the tree is usually straight and has smooth bark that is gray or brown in color.
The leaves of the tree are large and leathery, and they have a deep green color. The flowers of the council tree are small and white, and they grow in clusters. The fruit of the tree is a small, red fig.
The council tree is an important tree in many cultures. In some cultures, the tree is considered to be a sacred tree. The council tree is also an important source of food and shelter for many animals.
8. Creeping Fig (Ficus pumila).
The Ficus pumila, also known as the creeping fig or climbing fig, is a fast-growing vine from East Asia. It is a member of the mulberry family (Moraceae) and can reach up to 30 m in length if left unchecked.
The leaves are small (usually less than five cm long), ovate-shaped, and have a glossy surface. The flowers are tiny and white, with male and female flowers on separate plants (dioecious). The fruit is a small black fig, which is where the plant gets its name.
The creeping fig is an aggressive climber and will quickly cover any surface it can find. It has been known to damage brickwork, stonework, and even concrete.
The plant produces adventitious roots (or “rootlets”) along its stems, which allows it to attach itself to surfaces and climb. If you have a creeping fig in your garden, it is important to keep an eye on it and make sure it does not damage any structures on your property.
9. Ficus Daniella (Ficus Moclame).
It is a tropical plant that belongs to the family Moraceae. It is also known as Ficus Moclame. The Daniella ficus is a native of Brazil, but it can be found in other parts of South America as well. This plant has been introduced to many countries in Africa and Asia.
The Daniella ficus is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 20 feet tall. The leaves of this plant are dark green and glossy. The flowers of the ficus Daniella are small and white. The fruit of this plant is a blackberry-like drupe.
The ficus Daniella is an evergreen plant that can tolerate full sun or partial shade. This plant prefers well-drained soil. The ficus Daniella is drought tolerant and can withstand occasional flooding.
This plant can be propagated by seed or cuttings. It is important to note that the ficus Daniella can be invasive in some parts of the world.
10. Fiddle-Leaf fig (Ficus lyrata).
The Ficus lyrata, also known as the fiddle-leaf fig tree, is a species of fig that is native to tropical Africa. The leaves of this tree are large and deeply lobed, resembling a fiddle or violin.
The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall in its natural habitat, but it is often much smaller when grown in containers.
The fiddle-leaf fig tree is a popular houseplant because it is easy to care for and its leaves add a touch of greenery to any room.
11. Indian Banyan (Ficus benghalensis).
The Indian Banyan tree is a large, spreading tree that can grow up to 30 meters in height. The tree has a wide, dense canopy of dark green leaves and thick, woody branches.
The Indian Banyan tree is native to the Indian subcontinent and is found in many parts of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
The Indian Banyan tree is sacred to Hindus and is often found growing near temples and other religious sites. The tree is also considered to be lucky, and many people plant them in their homes and gardens. The Indian Banyan tree is a popular choice for bonsai, and the leaves are used in traditional medicine.
12. Indian Laurel (Ficus microcarpa)
The Indian Laurel is a species of fig that is native to Asia, specifically India and Sri Lanka. The Indian Laurel tree can grow up to 30m tall with a spread of 20m.
The leaves are dark green and glossy, and the branches are covered in small, reddish-brown buds. The flowers are tiny and yellow, and they bloom in the spring. The fruit is a small, red fig that ripens in the summer.
The Indian Laurel is an evergreen tree, which means it keeps its leaves all year round. It is a popular tree for gardens and parks because it is easy to care for and it doesn’t need much water.
13. Long Leaf Ficus (Ficus binnendijkii)
The long leaf ficus (Ficus binnendijkii) is a species of fig tree that is native to Southeast Asia. The leaves of this tree are very large, and can grow up to three feet in length. The long leaf ficus is also known for its unique fruit, which is shaped like a small, greenish-yellow fig.
The long leaf ficus is a popular tree in the tropics, and is often used as a shade tree or an ornamental tree. This tree can also be found in many public parks and gardens. The long leaf ficus is a fast-growing tree, and can reach a height of up to 30 feet in just a few years.
The long leaf ficus is a popular tree for bonsai enthusiasts, and can be trained to grow in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. This tree is also easy to care for, and does not require much maintenance.
14. Mistletoe Fig (Ficus deltoidea)
The Mistletoe fig tree is a member of the Moraceae, or mulberry family. The leaves are simple and alternate, with an entire margin. The leaf surface is hairless and the texture is leathery. The Mistletoe fig tree can grow up to 30m tall.
The Mistletoe fig tree is native to Southeast Asia. It is found in India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. The Mistletoe fig tree is also found in Australia, where it is known as the Curtain Fig tree.
The leaves of the Mistletoe fig tree are used for medicine. The leaves are used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and other gastrointestinal disorders. The leaves are also used to treat respiratory disorders such as asthma and bronchitis.
The Mistletoe fig tree is an evergreen tree. The flowers are small and yellow, and they grow in clusters. The fruit is a small, red berry that contains seeds.
15. Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla)
The Moreton Bay fig is a large evergreen tree that can reach up to 60m in height. The tree gets its name from Moreton Bay in Queensland, Australia, where it is commonly found growing.
The Moreton Bay fig is an iconic tree of the Australian landscape. The massive trunk and spreading canopy of the tree make it a popular choice for shade and shelter in parks and gardens. The tree is also home to many birds and animals, which use the hollows in the trunk for nesting.
The Moreton Bay fig is a member of the genus Ficus, which includes all the species of fig trees. The Moreton Bay fig is most closely related to the banyan tree (Ficus bengalensis).
The Moreton Bay fig is a popular subject of photography and paintings. The tree has also been used in many films and television shows set in Australia.
16. Narrow Leaf fig (Ficus maclellandii ‘Alii’)
The Narrow Leaf Fig (Ficus maclellandii ‘Alii’) is a type of fig tree that is native to Southeast Asia. It gets its name from its long, narrow leaves which can grow up to 12 inches in length. The tree itself can grow up to 30 feet tall and produces small, yellowish-green fruits.
The Narrow Leaf Fig is a popular houseplant and is often used in bonsai. It can be difficult to grow, however, as it requires high humidity and lots of sunlight. If you are thinking about growing a Narrow Leaf Fig tree, make sure you have the time and patience to care for it properly.
17. Petiolate Fig (Ficus petiolaris)
The petiolate fig tree is a species of fig that is native to tropical America. The leaves of this tree are large and have a long, slender petiole (leaf stalk). The fruit of the petiolate fig tree is edible and has a sweet taste.
This species of fig tree is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
The petiolate fig tree is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of 30 meters (98 feet). The leaves of this tree are large and have a long, slender petiole (leaf stalk).
The fruit of the petiolate fig tree is edible and has a sweet taste. This species of fig tree is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
18. Red Leaf Fig (Ficus congesta)
The red leaf fig tree is a tropical tree that grows in the rainforests of South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Its scientific name is Ficus congesta.
The red leaf fig tree can grow to be over 100 feet tall and its trunk can be up to two feet in diameter. The leaves of the red leaf fig tree are dark green and glossy, and they have a red or purple hue. The tree produces small, yellowish-green flowers that turn into red or purple fruits.
The red leaf fig tree is an important food source for many animals, including monkeys, birds, and bats. The tree is also used as a traditional medicine by indigenous people in South America and Africa.
19. Retusa Bonsai (Ficus retusa)
The Retusa bonsai is a tropical tree that originates from Southeast Asia. It is a member of the Moraceae family, which includes many other bonsai species such as the Ficus microcarpa.
The retusa bonsai has small, dark green leaves and a compact growth habit. When young, the tree produces small, white flowers that turn into yellow-orange fruits.
The retusa bonsai is an excellent tree for beginners because it is very easy to care for. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, in full sun or partial shade. The tree does not require much watering and can tolerate some drought conditions. However, it is important to not let the soil dry out completely.
20. Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica)
A rubber tree is a plant that produces latex. The latex is then used to make rubber.
Rubber trees are native to South America, but they can now be found in many tropical locations around the world.
Rubber trees need bright light and regular watering. They can be grown in pots or in the ground.
21. Sacred Fig (Ficus religiosa)
The sacred fig tree is a large tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall. The leaves of the sacred fig tree are large and have a leathery texture. The flowers of the sacred fig tree are small and greenish-white in color. The fruit of the sacred fig tree is a small red or black berry.
The sacred fig tree is native to the Indian subcontinent. The sacred fig tree has been venerated in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism for centuries. In Hinduism, the sacred fig tree is known as the “Tree of Life” and is considered to be a symbol of immortality.
In Buddhism, the sacred fig tree is known as the “Bodhi Tree” and is considered to be the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. In Jainism, the sacred fig tree is known as the “Tree of Nirvana” and is considered to be a symbol of liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
22. Sandpaper Fig (Ficus coronata)
The sandpaper fig is a native Australian tree that gets its name from the rough, sandpapery texture of its leaves. This large evergreen tree can grow up to 35 meters tall and has a dense, spreading canopy.
The trunk and branches are covered in thick, dark green leaves that have a slightly wavy edge. The undersides of the leaves are a paler green and covered in tiny, sharp hairs.
The tree produces small, yellowish-green flowers that grow in clusters along the trunk and branches. These flowers are followed by small, round fruits that turn red when they mature.
The sandpaper fig is found in rainforests, coastal forests, and woodlands in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. It is a popular tree for gardens and parks due to its attractive foliage and dense canopy.
23. Sycamore Fig (Ficus sycomorus)
The sycamore fig tree is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall. The sycamore fig is native to Africa and the Middle East and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Australia, where it is now considered an invasive species.
The sycamore fig gets its name from its large, round leaves which are similar in shape to the leaves of the sycamore tree. The sycamore fig is also known as the “false banyan” because it looks like a miniature version of the banyan tree.
24. Variegated Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica ‘Ruby’)
A variegated rubber tree is a type of rubber tree that has leaves with white and green stripes. The leaves are also more pointy than the regular rubber tree.
The variegated rubber tree is native to Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. It was introduced to Europe in the early 1800s and then to the United States in the mid 1800s.
The variegated rubber tree can grow up to 50 feet tall and 30 feet wide. The leaves are 12 inches long and the trunk is two to three feet in diameter.
The variegated rubber tree is a popular houseplant because it is easy to care for and it does not require a lot of light. It can also tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
25. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)
The weeping fig tree, Ficus benjamina, is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 50 feet tall. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and the branches are slender and drooping. The bark is smooth and grey.
The weeping fig tree is native to Southeast Asia, but it has been introduced to many other parts of the world, including the United States. It is a popular houseplant because it is easy to care for and it can tolerate low light levels.
Weeping fig trees are not very drought-tolerant, so they should be watered regularly. They also need to be fertilized every few months. If you live in an area with cold winters, you will need to bring your weeping fig tree indoors or provide it with a winter protection.
Weeping fig trees are susceptible to several pests and diseases, including scale insects, mealybugs, spider mites, root rot, and leaf spot.
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How to care for ficus tree outdoors
Ficus trees are a popular choice for many homeowners because of their durability and ease of care. When grown outdoors, these tough plants can reach heights of 30 feet or more. While they’re relatively low-maintenance, there are a few things you’ll need to do to keep your ficus tree healthy and looking its best.
Here are a few tips for caring for your ficus tree outdoors:
- Plant in an area that gets full sun. Ficus trees need at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive.
- Keep the soil moist. These plants like consistently moist soil, so water them deeply and regularly (about once a week).
- Fertilize regularly. Use a balanced fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season.
- Prune as needed. To keep your ficus tree looking its best, prune it annually to remove any dead or damaged branches.
How to care for ficus tree indoors.
Ficus trees are a popular type of houseplant, and for good reason! They’re easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of indoor environments. If you’re thinking about adding a ficus tree to your home, here are a few tips to help you get started.
Light: Ficus trees prefer bright, indirect light. If your tree is placed in a spot that gets direct sunlight, you may need to adjust the amount of water it receives.
Water: Ficus trees like to be kept moist, but not soggy. Water your tree when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer to your ficus tree every two to four weeks during the growing season.
Pruning: Ficus trees can be pruned to control their size and shape. When pruning, be sure to use sharp, clean tools to avoid damaging the plant.
FAQs about ficus trees
Are ficus and fig trees the same?
No, they are not. Ficus trees are a type of flowering plant, while fig trees are a type of fruit tree. Both plants are in the same family (Moraceae), but they are different species. Fig trees produce fruits that we eat, while ficus trees do not.
Ficus trees are native to tropical regions of the world, while fig trees are native to temperate regions. Ficus trees can grow to be very large (up to 50 feet tall), while fig trees are usually smaller (up to 30 feet tall).
What is the life expectancy of a ficus tree?
The average lifespan of a ficus tree is between ten and fifteen years. However, some individual trees have been known to live for over fifty years!
How many varieties of ficus trees are there?
Ficus trees are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. There are over 800 species of ficus, making it one of the largest plant genera in the world.
Which Ficus is best for indoors?
This is a question that I get asked a lot, and it really depends on what you are looking for in a plant. If you want a Ficus that is going to grow large and provide some shade, then the Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina) is probably your best bet.
If you are looking for a more compact plant that can tolerate lower light levels, then the Dwarf Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica ‘Decora’) might be a better option.
If you are looking for a Ficus that is going to produce fruit, then the Common Fig (Ficus carica) would be the one to choose. However, all of these plants can be finicky indoors and are known for dropping their leaves, so if you are looking for a low-maintenance plant then you might want to consider something else.
Conclusion
Ficus trees are a fascinating and varied group of plants that can be found in many different habitats around the world. There is a ficus tree to suit almost any landscape, whether you’re looking for a small shrub or a towering evergreen. With such a wide range of species available, it’s easy to find the perfect ficus tree for your home.
