Different Types Of Fiddle Leaf Fig: Your Ultimate Guide To Choosing

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Ever scroll through a home decor magazine and find yourself captivated by a tall, sculptural plant with huge, violin-shaped leaves? That, my friend, is the iconic Fiddle Leaf Fig. You’ve probably admired them from afar, maybe even thought, “I’d love one, but I’ve heard they’re so fussy.” It’s a common feeling, and it keeps too many people from enjoying this stunning houseplant.

I’m here to promise you that the Fiddle Leaf Fig’s dramatic reputation is only half the story. The real secret is that success starts with choosing the right plant for your space and lifestyle. Not all Fiddle Leaf Figs are created equal, and that’s fantastic news for you!

In this complete guide, we’re going to explore the different types of fiddle leaf fig, from the classic giant to charming compact varieties. We’ll break down their unique needs, so you can pick your perfect match with total confidence and finally bring that show-stopping green beauty home. Let’s get growing!

Why All the Fuss? The Enduring Appeal of the Fiddle Leaf Fig

So, what makes this plant, Ficus lyrata, an undisputed superstar in the world of interior design? It’s more than just a passing trend. Its bold, architectural form instantly elevates any room, acting as a living sculpture.

The large, lush, deeply veined leaves create a connection to nature that feels both wild and sophisticated. They quite literally bring a room to life. But the benefits of different types of fiddle leaf fig go beyond looks. Like many houseplants, they are excellent air purifiers, helping to filter common indoor pollutants.

Caring for a plant and watching it thrive can also be an incredible boost for your well-being. There’s a unique joy in seeing a new leaf unfurl, a sign that your care and attention are paying off. It’s a rewarding journey, and it starts with a single choice.

A Closer Look at the Different Types of Fiddle Leaf Fig

Ready to meet the family? Understanding the key differences between these varieties is the first step in our different types of fiddle leaf fig guide. Each one has its own personality, size potential, and ideal home. Let’s find yours.

The Classic: Ficus lyrata

This is the one you see gracing the covers of magazines. The standard Ficus lyrata is beloved for its enormous, glossy, lyre-shaped leaves and its impressive potential for height, easily reaching over 10 feet tall indoors under the right conditions.

Best For: Gardeners with bright, spacious rooms who want to make a dramatic statement. It needs space to grow both up and out.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to prune the top once it reaches your desired height. This encourages the plant to branch out, creating a fuller, more tree-like shape rather than just a single, tall stalk.

The Compact Cutie: Ficus lyrata ‘Bambino’

If you love the Fiddle Leaf look but don’t have the space for a ten-foot tree, the ‘Bambino’ is your perfect match. This dwarf variety has the same iconic leaf shape but on a much smaller scale. The leaves are typically smaller, thicker, and grow more closely together on the stem, giving it a dense, bushy appearance.

Best For: Small apartments, desktops, and shelves. It’s also an excellent choice for beginners, as its compact size makes it a bit more manageable.

Pro Tip: While ‘Bambino’ stays much smaller than its classic cousin, it will still grow! Expect it to reach a mature height of around 3-4 feet, making it a substantial but not overwhelming plant.

The Columnar Choice: Ficus lyrata ‘Compacta’

Often confused with ‘Bambino’, the ‘Compacta’ variety is another excellent option for smaller spaces. The main difference is its growth habit. ‘Compacta’ tends to grow in a more narrow, upright, columnar shape, while ‘Bambino’ can be a bit more rounded and bushy.

Best For: Tight corners or spaces where you want some vertical green without taking up a lot of floor space.

Pro Tip: Both ‘Bambino’ and ‘Compacta’ appreciate the same care as the standard Fiddle Leaf, but their denser foliage means you should be extra vigilant about checking for pests and ensuring good air circulation around the leaves.

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The Rare Gem: Ficus lyrata ‘Variegata’

Prepare to be mesmerized. The Variegated Fiddle Leaf Fig is a true collector’s item, boasting stunning leaves splashed with patches of creamy white, silver, and pale green. Each leaf is a unique work of art, making it a breathtaking focal point.

Best For: More experienced plant parents or anyone ready for a rewarding challenge. Its beauty comes with a need for more precise care.

Pro Tip: The variegated portions of the leaves lack chlorophyll, which is essential for photosynthesis. This means your ‘Variegata’ will need even more bright, indirect light than a standard Fiddle Leaf to stay healthy and maintain its beautiful coloring. It’s also much more sensitive to overwatering, so let it dry out thoroughly.

Your Different Types of Fiddle Leaf Fig Care Guide

No matter which variety you choose, the fundamentals of care are the same. Fiddle Leaf Figs thrive on consistency. Once you understand their core needs, you’ll find they aren’t so scary after all! This is your go-to different types of fiddle leaf fig care guide for success.

Getting the Light Just Right

This is the most critical factor. Fiddle Leaf Figs need lots of bright, indirect light. Think of the light you’d find a few feet away from a large east-facing window or in the middle of a bright room. Direct, scorching afternoon sun will burn their leaves, while too little light will cause slow, leggy growth and leaf drop.

The Secret to Perfect Watering

Overwatering is the number one killer of Fiddle Leaf Figs. They hate “wet feet.” The best method is to water thoroughly until you see it run out of the drainage holes, then let the top 2-3 inches of soil dry out completely before watering again. For most homes, this will be about once every 7-14 days.

Pro Tip: Lift the pot! You’ll quickly get a feel for how heavy it is when freshly watered versus when it’s dry. It’s a more reliable method than just looking at the topsoil.

Humidity and Temperature

These are tropical plants from West Africa, so they appreciate warmth and humidity. Keep them in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and away from cold drafts, vents, or sudden temperature changes. If your home is dry, especially in winter, consider grouping it with other plants, using a pebble tray, or running a humidifier nearby.

Feeding Your Fig

During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your Fiddle Leaf Fig with a balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for houseplants every 2-4 weeks. Dilute it to half-strength to avoid burning the roots. In the fall and winter, you can stop fertilizing as the plant’s growth naturally slows down.

Common Problems with Different Types of Fiddle Leaf Fig (and How to Fix Them!)

Seeing a brown spot or a dropped leaf can be alarming, but don’t panic! These plants are expressive, and they’re usually just telling you that something in their environment needs a small adjustment. Here’s a look at some common problems with different types of fiddle leaf fig.

Brown Spots on Leaves

Small, dark brown spots, especially near the bottom of the plant, often signal overwatering and potential root rot. If the spots are crispy and on the edges, it could be underwatering or low humidity. Large, light brown, “sunburned” patches mean too much direct sun.

Solution: Assess your watering routine first. Let the soil dry out more between waterings. If it’s a sunburn issue, move the plant to a spot with less intense light.

Dropping Leaves

A Fiddle Leaf Fig dropping its lower leaves is often a sign of shock. Did you just move it? Is it near a drafty window or an AC vent? They are creatures of habit and dislike being moved around.

Solution: Find a good spot with consistent light and temperature, and leave it there. Give it time to acclimate to its new home, and resist the urge to constantly relocate it.

Leggy Growth and Small New Leaves

If your plant is stretching towards the light with lots of space between the leaves, or if new leaves are coming in much smaller than the older ones, it’s begging for more light. This is a classic sign of etiolation.

Solution: Gradually move your plant to a brighter location. You can also prune the top to encourage a fuller, bushier shape once it’s in a happier spot.

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Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Fiddle Leaf Fig Practices

Being a great plant parent also means being mindful of our planet. Adopting sustainable different types of fiddle leaf fig practices is easy and beneficial for both your plant and the environment.

Choosing Your Pot and Soil

Opt for a pot with excellent drainage. Unglazed terracotta is a fantastic eco-friendly different types of fiddle leaf fig choice because it’s porous and allows the soil to breathe, helping to prevent root rot. When making your potting mix, consider using sustainable amendments like coco coir or compost instead of relying solely on peat moss, which is a less renewable resource.

Pest Control, The Natural Way

Avoid harsh chemical pesticides. Most common houseplant pests like spider mites and mealybugs can be managed effectively with simple, natural solutions. Regularly wiping the large leaves with a damp cloth not only keeps them dust-free and shiny but also helps you spot any pests early. If you do find pests, a simple solution of diluted neem oil or insecticidal soap is a safe and effective treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Different Types of Fiddle Leaf Fig

Which type of fiddle leaf fig is easiest for beginners?

The Ficus lyrata ‘Bambino’ is widely considered the best entry-level Fiddle Leaf Fig. Its smaller, more manageable size makes it less intimidating, and its compact nature means it fits easily into most homes without requiring a huge, dedicated space right away.

How fast do fiddle leaf figs grow?

Growth rate depends on the variety and conditions. A standard Ficus lyrata in an ideal environment (lots of light, proper water, and food) can grow an impressive 1-2 feet per year. Dwarf varieties like ‘Bambino’ and ‘Compacta’ are much slower and more contained growers.

Can I keep my fiddle leaf fig outside?

You can, but only in very specific conditions. Fiddle Leaf Figs can live outdoors year-round in USDA zones 9-11. In other climates, you can move them outside for the summer, but they must be placed in a spot that gets morning sun and afternoon shade to avoid leaf scorch. You also have to acclimate them to the outdoor light gradually over a week or two.

Why are my new fiddle leaf fig leaves small?

Small new leaves are typically a sign that the plant isn’t getting enough energy to produce its signature large foliage. The two most common culprits are insufficient light or a lack of nutrients. Try moving it to a brighter location and ensure you are fertilizing it regularly during the growing season.

Your Fiddle Leaf Fig Journey Awaits

See? The world of Fiddle Leaf Figs is so much richer and more accessible than you might have thought. From the majestic classic to the charming ‘Bambino’ and the exquisite ‘Variegata’, there truly is a perfect plant for every person and every home.

The key to success isn’t some magical green thumb—it’s knowledge and consistency. By choosing the right variety for your space and committing to providing steady light and careful watering, you are already on the path to becoming a confident and successful Fiddle Leaf Fig parent.

Now that you have your complete different types of fiddle leaf fig tips and guide, you’re ready to choose the perfect leafy friend to bring life and style into your home. Go forth and grow!

Rimon Chowdhury
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