Is it difficult for you to recognize different types of fiddle leaf fig plants? If so, don’t worry! In this article, I will discuss the 7 best types of fiddle leaf fig plants. By the end of this article, you will be able to distinguish any variety of fiddle leaf figs quickly.
Also, you will discover the best fiddle plants for your home decor. For instance, Ficus lyrata will make a great choice for your home if you want a tall and bushy fiddle plant.
Additionally, you can also get the dwarf varieties in the fiddle plant, also known as a bambino. Yet, it is important to note that these fiddle leaf fig plants are not different types of fiddle leaf figs. These are merely the result of pruning and shaping.
Let us take a look at some varieties of fiddle leaf figs that are worth exploring.
Types of Fiddle Leaf Fig Plants
1. Fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata)
Often referred to as fiddle leaf figs, these plants produce large, showy leaves that resemble fiddles.
In the home, these plants grow to heights of ten feet. Moreover, it can be pruned either bushy or with a canopy of foliage covering one tall trunk.
It is commonly referred to as fiddle leaf fig trees when they have a single trunk and a canopy of foliage. Since they have lateral branches and dense foliage, some call them fiddle leaf fig plants.
Additionally, the Ficus lyrata plant, regardless of how it appears, requires the same care as any other Fig plant.
2. Dwarf fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata ‘bambino’)
A dwarf fiddle leaf fig is the perfect centerpiece for tabletops! Usually, it does not grow much taller than two to four feet.
If you want to avoid heartache in the future with your fiddle plants, invest in a good moisture meter. As a tropical plant, bambinos need fast-draining soil, good plant food, indirect sunlight, and humidity. Additionally, all day long, make sure it gets plenty of bright and indirect light.
For those who are not sure of their abilities, you might try a bambino fiddle leaf fig or dwarf fiddle leaf fig.
3. Ficus lyrata ‘compacta’
It is a medium-sized type of fiddle leaf fig. Upon reaching maturity, Compacta can reach heights of up to 4 feet in height.
It has a natural tendency to become bushy and dense with foliage, similar to the traditional fiddle leaf fig plant.
Ficus lyrata ‘compacta’ is a great choice if you are short on space but want to enjoy the beauty of a fiddle leaf fig.
4. Variegated fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata ‘Variegata’)
Ficus lyrata ‘Variegata,’ also known as the variegated fiddle leaf fig, has amazing variegated foliage. There are white, cream, or yellow margins on the leaves of the variegated fiddle leaf fig. Except for lighting, it grows like a traditional fiddle leaf fig.
Due to a lack of chlorophyll, the variegated areas of the leaves cannot perform photosynthesis and produce energy for the plant. So, it means that you should give variegated fiddle leaf figs lighter than their green counterparts.
Furthermore, variegated plants grown in too little light will produce solid green leaves to utilize the light they receive. To keep the beautiful variegation on the leaves, provide at least 6 hours of bright light per day.
5. Ficus Audrey
Ficus Audrey is similar in appearance and growth habits to fiddle leaf figs. However, it differs from the fiddle leaf by its smaller, slightly fuzzy oblong leaves and smooth, light-colored trunk.
Moreover, it is easier to grow and care for indoors Ficus Audrey. Additionally, Ficus Audrey is toxic to pets. So, don’t let curious pets get close to it.
6. Variegated Rubber Plant
The Variegated Rubber Tree has large, 5 to 12-inch-long, thick, light green leaves with white or yellow margins. Moreover, it has multiple trunks and a sprawling canopy.
The variegated love indirect sun. Additionally, it needs water every 10 to 14 days in winter and every 5-7 days in summer.
7. Lofty Fig
Decorative and colorful, Lofty figs make excellent specimens for any home or office environment.
This close relative of the Fiddle Fig is usually kept as a houseplant. While this type of Ficus is similar to Fiddle Leaf Fig, it’s easier to take care of.
As houseplants, Lofty FigTrees grow well in containers even into maturity. Those in hot climates can plant lofty figs outdoors, where they will grow up to 40 feet tall.
A few quick questions about fiddle leaf fig varieties
Where can I buy different fiddle leaf fig varieties?
Ficus lyrata and Bambino are two varieties of fiddle leaf figs you can buy at your local garden center. However, other varieties, especially variegated fiddle leaf figs, are harder to find and are usually only available online from private sellers. From time to time, you can find these on Etsy and eBay.
How can you tell if a fiddle leaf fig is a Bambino?
If you look at the leaves, you can determine if it’s a bambino or a regular fiddle. In regular fiddles, the leaves are elongated and shaped like a fiddle.
A bambino leaf tends to be smaller, thicker, and rounder. There are also some bambinos that have straight-up leaves.
What is the difference between Ficus lyrata and fiddle leaf fig?
Ficus lyrata has large, upright, violin-shaped leaves that grow upright with heavy veining.
Are fiddle leaf figs hard to take care of?
While it’s not the easiest houseplant to take care of, the visual impact it creates in a room when given appropriate conditions is unmatched. An environment that is warm and humid, with a reasonable amount of water and sufficient light is ideal for the Fiddle Leaf Fig.
Conclusion
It turns out that all the types of fiddle leaf fig plants you have seen in this article are ficus lyrata. Based on the way they have been shaped and pruned, they appear to be different fiddle varieties.
There are smaller varieties of Ficus lyrata, such as compacta and bambino, which do not grow as large as traditional fiddle leaf figs. However, they require the same care and maintenance.
You can choose a fiddle leaf fig that will fit in your home based on the amount of space you have. If you are looking for a taller fiddle plant, select a ficus lyrata, but if you want something smaller, try a bambino or compact variety.
There is no doubt that it is a beautiful plant, but it can be difficult to care for. Therefore, you should provide a warm and humid environment for your fiddle plant. In addition, any type of fiddle plant needs a reasonable amount of water and sufficient light for growth.
Which type of fiddle leaf fig is most suitable for your needs? Let us know what you think in the comments.
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