Ficus Audrey Vs Ficus Lyrata: A Complete Guide To Choosing Your

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

Ever find yourself scrolling through stunning home decor photos, captivated by a gorgeous, leafy tree in the corner? Chances are, you were looking at a Ficus. But then comes the big question: was it the iconic, dramatic Fiddle Leaf Fig or its elegant, understated cousin, the Ficus Audrey?

Agreeing on which one to bring home can feel like a huge decision. They both offer that lush, green statement look, but their personalities couldn’t be more different. One is a notorious drama queen, while the other is surprisingly laid-back.

I promise, this guide will clear up all the confusion. As a fellow plant lover who has cared for both of these beauties, I’m here to give you the inside scoop. We’ll break down the ficus audrey vs ficus lyrata debate, piece by piece, so you can choose with absolute confidence.

We’ll dive deep into their visual differences, compare their care needs side-by-side, talk about their temperaments (yes, they have them!), and explore the common problems you might face. By the end, you’ll know exactly which Ficus is the perfect match for your home and your lifestyle.

At a Glance: Ficus Audrey vs Ficus Lyrata Showdown

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s start with a quick side-by-side comparison. Think of this as the “cheat sheet” for understanding these two popular houseplants.

  • Leaf Shape & Size:
    • Ficus Lyrata (Fiddle Leaf Fig): Huge, violin-shaped leaves that can be over a foot long. They are deeply veined and have a classic, dramatic look.
    • Ficus Audrey (Ficus benghalensis): Smaller, elegant oval-shaped leaves. They are thick but feel softer, almost velvety to the touch.
  • Color & Texture:
    • Lyrata: A deep, rich forest green with a glossy, leathery texture.
    • Audrey: A softer, matte emerald green with light green veins. The trunk is a striking pale white or beige.
  • Growth Habit:
    • Lyrata: Typically grows as a single, commanding stalk or a “standard” tree shape. It’s very architectural.
    • Audrey: Naturally grows more like a traditional tree, with multiple branches and a fuller, wider silhouette.
  • Temperament (Fussiness):
    • Lyrata: Notoriously finicky. It hates being moved, detests drafts, and will drop leaves if you look at it wrong. Not for the faint of heart!
    • Audrey: Wonderfully forgiving. It’s much more adaptable to different conditions and bounces back from care mistakes easily. A perfect choice for beginners.

The Visual Deep Dive: Comparing Their Looks and Style

While both are stunning, their aesthetic contributions to a room are quite different. Choosing between them often comes down to the specific “vibe” you’re trying to create.

Ficus Lyrata: The Bold, Dramatic Statement Piece

There’s a reason the Fiddle Leaf Fig became an icon. Its enormous, uniquely shaped leaves demand attention. A Ficus lyrata doesn’t just sit in a room; it commands it.

Its strong, upright form makes it perfect for filling empty corners, flanking a fireplace, or adding vertical height to a room with tall ceilings. If your style is modern, maximalist, or you simply want a plant that makes people say “wow,” the Lyrata is your go-to.

Ficus Audrey: The Elegant, Understated Cousin

If the Lyrata is a rockstar, the Audrey is a graceful ballerina. Its beauty is softer and more subtle. The fuzzy, oval leaves and light-colored trunk give it an airy, almost ethereal quality.

The Ficus audrey is incredibly versatile. Its branching nature allows it to fill out a space horizontally, making it look full and lush. It works beautifully with bohemian, minimalist, or Scandinavian decor, adding a touch of serene, natural elegance without overwhelming the space.

The Ultimate Ficus Audrey vs Ficus Lyrata Care Guide

Here’s where the differences really shine. Understanding their care needs is the most critical part of this ficus audrey vs ficus lyrata guide. One requires your devotion; the other just asks for your consideration.

Lighting: The Biggest Deal-Breaker

This is arguably the most important factor. Get the light wrong, and your Ficus will not be happy.

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The Ficus Lyrata craves light. It needs hours of very bright, indirect sunlight every day. An east-facing window is often perfect, or a spot a few feet back from a south or west-facing window. Too little light leads to sad, droopy leaves and no new growth. Too much direct sun will scorch those magnificent leaves.

The Ficus Audrey, on the other hand, is much more adaptable. While it also thrives in bright, indirect light, it can tolerate medium-light conditions far better than its cousin. This flexibility makes it a much easier plant to place in the average home.

Watering Wisdom: How Not to Drown Your Ficus

Overwatering is the number one killer of houseplants, and these two are no exception. Consistency is key.

For your Lyrata, you must be vigilant. It is extremely prone to root rot. The best practice is to wait until the top 2-3 inches of soil are completely dry, then water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom. Never, ever let it sit in a saucer of water. It’s a one-way ticket to brown spots and dropped leaves.

Your Audrey is much more forgiving. It has similar needs—it likes to dry out between waterings—but it won’t throw a fit if you’re a day early or a day late. It’s simply more resilient, which is a huge relief for new plant parents.

Humidity and Temperature: Creating a Happy Home

Both of these plants hail from tropical regions, so they appreciate warmth and humidity. Keep them in temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C) and away from cold drafts, vents, or sudden temperature changes.

The Lyrata is more sensitive to dry air, which can cause its leaf edges to turn brown and crispy. Grouping it with other plants or using a humidifier can help. The Audrey is less fussy about humidity levels, another point in its favor for ease of care.

Temperament and Fussiness: Which Ficus is More Forgiving?

Let’s be blunt. The Ficus Lyrata has a reputation for a reason. It is the definition of a high-maintenance plant. It hates change. Move it to a new spot? It will drop leaves. A cold draft from a window? Leaves drop. Water it inconsistently? You guessed it—more dropped leaves. Caring for a Lyrata is a relationship you have to work at.

The Ficus Audrey is the polar opposite. It’s calm, cool, and collected. It adapts well to new environments and doesn’t panic over minor inconsistencies in your care routine. If you’re looking for a large, tree-like plant but are worried about the commitment, the Audrey is your answer. This is one of the most important ficus audrey vs ficus lyrata tips I can offer: be honest about how much attention you can give a plant.

Common Problems with Ficus Audrey vs Ficus Lyrata (and How to Fix Them)

Even the healthiest plants can run into trouble. Knowing what to look for is half the battle. Here’s a look at some common problems with ficus audrey vs ficus lyrata.

The Dreaded Brown Spots

On a Lyrata, brown spots are a frequent complaint. Small, reddish-brown spots that spread are often edema from inconsistent watering. Large, dry brown spots are usually a sign of underwatering or sunburn. Dark, mushy spots at the base are the dreaded root rot.

An Audrey is less prone to spotting, but it can happen. It’s almost always a sign of a significant watering issue, typically overwatering. Check the soil and roots immediately.

Leaf Drop Catastrophes

If a Lyrata drops more than one or two bottom leaves, it’s throwing a tantrum. The cause is almost always shock from a change in its environment: being moved, repotted, a change in light, or a draft. The key is to find a good spot and then leave it there.

A Ficus Audrey rarely drops its leaves dramatically. If you see significant leaf drop, it’s a sign of a severe, prolonged problem like extreme underwatering or a major pest infestation.

Pesky Pests to Watch For

Both plants can fall victim to common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. The best defense is a good offense. Regularly inspect your plant, especially the undersides of leaves. Wiping the leaves down with a damp cloth not only keeps them beautiful but also helps you spot pests early.

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Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Ficus Care Best Practices

Loving your plants and loving the planet can go hand-in-hand. Adopting a few sustainable ficus audrey vs ficus lyrata habits is easy and beneficial for your green friends.

  • Choose Peat-Free Soil: Peat bogs are vital ecosystems. Opt for potting mixes that use sustainable alternatives like coco coir. Your Ficus will love the drainage it provides.
  • DIY Leaf Shine: Skip the chemical leaf shine sprays. A simple mixture of water with a tiny drop of dish soap on a soft cloth is all you need to keep leaves clean and glossy.

    • – Propagate and Share: Both Audrey and Lyrata can be propagated from stem cuttings. It’s a wonderful, eco-friendly ficus audrey vs ficus lyrata practice to grow new plants for free and share them with friends.

  • Water Wisely: If possible, use collected rainwater or let your tap water sit out overnight to allow chlorine to evaporate before watering your plants.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ficus Audrey vs Ficus Lyrata

Which Ficus grows faster?

In ideal conditions (lots of bright light, perfect watering), the Ficus Lyrata tends to be a slightly faster grower. However, the Ficus Audrey is a very steady and reliable grower, even in less-than-perfect conditions, and will often outpace a struggling Lyrata.

Can I put my Ficus Audrey or Lyrata outside?

You can, but with caution! They can only stay outside in warm weather (consistently above 60°F/15°C). They must be placed in a spot protected from direct afternoon sun and strong winds. Acclimate them gradually over a week to avoid shock.

Are Ficus Audrey and Ficus Lyrata toxic to pets?

Yes, both are mildly toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. The sap contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation of the mouth, drooling, and vomiting. It’s best to keep them out of reach of curious pets and children.

Which one is better for beginners?

Hands down, the Ficus Audrey. Its forgiving nature, adaptability to different light levels, and resilience to minor care mistakes make it a fantastic choice for anyone new to houseplants or someone who doesn’t want to stress about a finicky plant.

How do I encourage my Ficus to branch?

To encourage a bushier look, you can prune the top of your Ficus. This will signal the plant to send out new growth from nodes further down the stem. You can also try a technique called “notching,” where you make a small cut just above a leaf node to stimulate a new branch.

The Final Verdict: Which Ficus Will You Choose?

So, after this deep dive into the ficus audrey vs ficus lyrata debate, the choice becomes much clearer. It’s not about which plant is “better,” but which plant is better for you.

Choose the Ficus Lyrata if you have a bright, stable spot, you’re a confident plant parent who enjoys a challenge, and you want a bold, architectural showstopper that will make a dramatic impact.

Choose the Ficus Audrey if you’re a beginner, if your home has less-than-perfect light, or if you want a beautiful, tree-like plant that is forgiving, resilient, and brings a sense of calm, elegant grace to your space.

Whichever you decide, you’re bringing home a truly special plant that will grow with you for years to come. Trust your instincts, consider your home’s environment, and get ready to enjoy your new leafy friend. Happy planting!

Rimon Chowdhury
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