Ficus Trees: The Five Common Types
Figs, otherwise referred to as Ficus, are flowering plants that are native to specific parts of Asia and the Middle East. It holds great cultural and religious significance in regions where it is grown.
The genus, Ficus, has about 850 species, but the following are the five most common:Under the genus, Ficus, are some 850 species, and below are five of the most common:The genus, Ficus, has at least 850 known species, the following being the five most common:
Ficus benjamina
There is probably no fig tree more famous than Ficus benjamina, which is characterized by generally dark colors and a sometimes flawed look. Though it grows most rapidly in well-lit environments, it flourishes with a bit of light and water, even reaching a height of 13 feet. Ficus benjamina trees are called weeping trees as well because they often shed their leaves when moved to a different position, especially in a disadvantageous habitat.
Ficus lyrata
This type of Ficus tree is known for its trendiness and has been mainly used as an ornament then and now. A small tree, it grows best in bright areas and is also called the fiddle leaf or the banjo fig treeAlso called the banjo fig tree or the fiddle leaf, this small one thrives in bright areas. It will keep growing as long as it is kept away from direct sunlight, otherwise, its leaves could burn.
Ficus elastica
Some people find it odd when they discover that Ficus elastica is truly a rubber tree while remaining a specie of the fig tree. This Ficus tree is actually a mix of various types of Ficus trees that originated from an Asian tropical forest. The F. elastica can reach heights of 130 feet and has big, polished leaves that may have the same blotches found in F. banjamina.
Ficus microcarpa
Also referred to as Ficus ginseng, the F. microcarpa is not really a tree or shrub but a twisting aerial root from which leaves sprout. This plant can have a height anywhere between 16 inches and 3 feet, and looks like a bonsai. Like F. lyrata, appreciation for this fig tree is more about its decorative value than anything else. It grows best in temperatures of 12 to 15 degrees Celsius during wintertime and in shady places when it’s summer.
Ficus congesta
Ficus congesta, otherwise known as the cluster fig trees, are indigenous to the Philippines and Indonesia. As its name indicates, the fruits of this tree grow in big clusters on its branches and even on its trunk. The leaves of these trees are curled up at first, and then they unfurl and display varying shades of red – a glorious sight for most people. If you’ve been planning to decorate your home with a fig tree, the fact that you have read more about it makes you a wiser shopper now! While we can’t fit all the interesting information about these plants in one page.