Domestic Ficus Species Worth Considering: The Popular Ones and Some Less Common Choices to Explore
In the realm of indoor gardening, the Ficus family stands out with its diverse range of varieties that offer unique foliage shapes, colours, and growth habits. These 10 stylish and eye-catching ficus plants are perfect for enhancing indoor spaces with greenery, while also thriving in typical indoor conditions.
1. **Ficus lyrata (Fiddle Leaf Fig)** - Known for its iconic large, violin-shaped leaves, the fiddle leaf fig is a bold statement piece that also acts as an excellent air purifier.
2. **Ficus elastica (Rubber Plant)** - With glossy, thick leaves and varieties like 'Ruby' and 'Burgundy' offering beautiful colour variations, the rubber plant is a popular choice for its striking appearance.
3. **Ficus Triangularis** - This variety boasts distinctive triangular leaves, making it a compact and stylish choice for modern interiors.
4. **Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig)** - With small ovate leaves and a trailing habit, the creeping fig is ideal for hanging baskets or as a climbing indoor plant.
5. **Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig)** - Characterised by its graceful arching branches with glossy leaves, the weeping fig adds a touch of elegance to any indoor space.
6. **Ficus religiosa (Sacred Fig)** - With heart-shaped leaves and extended tips that flutter in a breeze, the sacred fig is a culturally symbolic and rare variety.
7. **Ficus elastica 'Tineke'** - This variegated rubber plant features creamy and green leaves, adding a splash of colour to indoor spaces.
8. **Ficus elastica 'Shivereana'** - Known for its unique leaf pattern with white and green variegation, the Shivereana variety is an eye-catching addition to any home.
9. **Ficus microcarpa Ginseng** - The ginseng variety of ficus microcarpa is a popular choice due to its thick, swollen roots that resemble ginseng, and glossy leaves.
10. **Ficus pumila 'Variegata'** - This variegated form of the creeping fig features cream and green leaves, adding visual texture and interest to indoor spaces.
These varieties are not only prized for their striking visual appeal but also for their adaptability to indoor conditions. Many thrive in bright, indirect light and moderate humidity. The fiddle leaf fig and rubber plants make great larger statement pieces, while creeping figs and Ficus Triangularis add interesting shapes and trailing effects to interiors.
For care, most ficus prefer well-draining soil, regular watering once the top soil is dry, and indirect bright light with protection from harsh direct sun. Variegated types benefit from slightly higher light to maintain leaf colour vibrancy.
These curated selections will add both style and botanical interest to any indoor garden or living space. For instance, the ficus ginseng variety is a perfect bonsai for desks, meditation spaces, or bare entryways needing a zen touch. The Scalloped Ceramic Plant Pot from Anthropologie is a deep blue planter that can stunt a small fiddle leaf fig in style, while the Rosendahl pedestal planter is a Bordeaux-colored planter that is perfect for a growing ficus ginseng.
- Artfully decorating your kitchen or living room with a touch of nature, the Ficus elastica 'Tineke' could be an excellent choice due to its visually appealing variegated leaves.
- The minimalist style in fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden can be further accentuated with the Ficus Triangularis, its compact triangular leaves adding a contemporary touch to your interior.
- For a bathroom seeking a relaxing atmosphere, the Ficus pumila 'Variegata' might be a suitable choice, its cream and green leaves adding visual texture and interest to the space.
- Embarking on a travel adventure could never be complete without capturing the essence of an exotic landscape. A Sacred Fig (Ficus religiosa) with its heart-shaped leaves and extended tips that flutter in a breeze, might be the perfect travel companion to symbolise cultural and botanical diversity.
- Enhancing your lifestyle by adopting a healthier approach to food-and-drink, it is also essential to cultivate a green thumb. The Ficus lyrata or Fiddle Leaf Fig, known as a great air purifier, can be an excellent investment for those seeking a greener living environment.
- Lastly, experiencing diverse cultures requires an open mind and an open heart. The Shivereana variety, a unique leaf pattern with white and green variegation, can serve as a daily reminder of the beauty and variety found in the world and within our own Ficus family.
