Ficus is a tremendously big and widespread genus with over 850 different types of trees, shrubs, vines, epiphytes, and other kinds of plants. As worldwide natives, different types of Ficus trees grow best in different places.
But did you know that even if you've never heard of Ficus plants and trees as a species, you've definitely seen the tree before? That's because the Indian Banyan tree is a species of Ficus called the Ficus benghalensis. This makes the Ficus a pretty well-known species in India, meaning quite a few of Ficus plants are also commonly known and grown as indoors plants in India.
Different types of Ficus plants vary vastly in terms of care requirements, appearance, and size. Some of them can be compact growers while some, like the Ficus benghalensis, can be large canopy trees so big and grand that they're known worldwide for their sheer size. In India, because of a relatively more hot and humid climate throughout a major part of the country, it is somewhat easy to grow these plants indoors.
A little bit of filtered sunlight, regular watering, and some love can go a long way with Ficus plants. Wondering what Ficus varieties you can grow in your home? Read on to know more!
• Types of Ficus Plants You Can Grow
1. Ficus lyrata or Fiddle Leaf Fig
Buy Fiddle Leaf Fig
Also known as the Fiddle-Leaf Fig, this Ficus plant is a popular houseplant featuring large, glossy, violin-shaped leaves. It's known for its striking appearance, making it a favorite in the world of home decor. It is also an enthusiastic and effective air purifier, cleaning the air around it by absorbing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and other particulate matter. It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Regularly cleaning the leaves and ensuring good drainage are essential for its care, along with occasional fertilization during the growing season.
2. Ficus benjamina or Weeping Fig
Commonly known as the Weeping Fig, the Ficus benjamina boasts glossy, slender leaves and gracefully arching branches. Its elegant appearance makes it another interior designer's favorite. Benefits include air purification and stress reduction. It thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers more consistent watering, keeping the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged. Regular misting helps maintain humidity for this Ficus tree indoors. It also requires occasional pruning to maintain its shape and benefits from being placed away from drafts and sudden temperature changes.
3. Ficus elastica or Rubber Plant
Buy Rubber Plant
The Ficus elastica, commonly known as the Rubber Plant, features large, glossy, dark green leaves that can add a bold statement to indoor spaces. It’s prized for its robust, upright growth and air-purifying qualities. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light and can tolerate lower light conditions. It requires moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Regular dusting of the leaves, occasional pruning, and ensuring good drainage are essential for its care, along with maintaining a stable, warm environment.
4. Ficus altissma or Council Tree
The Ficus altissima, also known as the Council Tree, is another Ficus tree that boasts large, glossy green leaves but with striking yellow veins, making it a very visually appealing houseplant. It benefits indoor spaces by purifying air and adding a tropical charm. This kind of Ficus plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some shade. It requires regular watering, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Proper care includes providing good drainage, maintaining humidity, and occasional fertilization during the growing season.
5. Ficus benghalensis or Banyan Tree or Banyan Fig
Buy Ficus Benghalensis Variegated
The Ficus benghalensis, commonly known as the Banyan Tree, features large, leathery green leaves and aerial roots that create a majestic, tree-like appearance. It is revered for its impressive growth and air-purifying benefits. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil. Regular watering, high humidity, and occasional feeding with balanced fertilizer during the growing season are essential for its care. It also benefits from occasional pruning to manage its size indoors.
6. Ficus umbellata
The Ficus umbellata is a striking houseplant with large, heart-shaped green leaves that add a lush, tropical feel to interiors. It's admired for its bold foliage and air-purifying qualities. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers well-draining soil kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. It benefits from high humidity and regular misting. Care includes occasional pruning to maintain its shape, dusting the leaves to keep them clean, and fertilizing during the growing season for optimal growth.
7. Ficus Bonsai
Buy Ficus Bonsai
The Ficus bonsai is a miniature version of the Ficus tree, known for its intricate, artistic shape and glossy green leaves. It adds aesthetic appeal and tranquility to indoor spaces. This bonsai thrives in bright, indirect light and requires well-draining soil kept moderately moist. Regular watering, misting for humidity, and periodic pruning to maintain its shape are essential care requirements. Benefits include air purification and a meditative, stress-relieving presence. Occasional fertilization during the growing season supports its health and vigor.
8. Lemon Twisted Netted Ficus Tree
Buy Ugaoo Lemon Twisted Netted Tree
The lemon twisted netted Ficus tree features distinctive, twisted branches and netted lemon-green leaves, making it a unique and decorative houseplant. It enhances indoor spaces with its striking appearance and air-purifying properties. This Ficus thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers well-draining soil kept moderately moist. Regular watering, allowing the top inch to dry between waterings, and maintaining humidity are crucial. Care includes occasional pruning to maintain shape and fertilization during the growing season for optimal growth.
These Ficus indoor plant make for great houseplants and often do well in different environments everywhere. With the right kind of love, you can help these plants blossom!
Buy Ficus Plants
