Is A Fiddle Leaf Fig A Type Of Ficus – Your Ultimate Guide To Ficus

ByRimon Chowdhury Updated on

You’ve seen it gracing the covers of design magazines and adding a touch of lush, sculptural beauty to your favorite influencer’s living room. The fiddle leaf fig is, without a doubt, the “it” plant of the last decade. But as you stand there admiring its giant, violin-shaped leaves, a question might pop into your head: what exactly is this plant?

You may have heard the word “Ficus” thrown around in garden centers, often in the same breath. It can be confusing! Are they related? Are they the same thing? You’ve come to the right place for answers.

I promise that by the end of this guide, you’ll not only know the definitive answer to “is a fiddle leaf fig a type of ficus,” but you’ll also understand why knowing this is the single most important secret to helping your plant thrive. We’ll demystify its family tree, unlock its specific needs, and transform you from a nervous plant owner into a confident fiddle leaf fig parent.

Let’s dig in and uncover the truth about this botanical superstar!

So, Is a Fiddle Leaf Fig a Type of Ficus? The Simple Answer

Let’s get straight to the point: Yes, absolutely. A fiddle leaf fig is a type of Ficus.

It’s not just a distant cousin; it’s a direct and proud member of the Ficus family. The plant’s scientific name is Ficus lyrata. In the world of botany, the first name, Ficus, is the genus (think of it as the family’s last name), and the second name, lyrata, is the species (the individual’s first name).

So, “Fiddle Leaf Fig” is simply the common, much friendlier name we use for Ficus lyrata. The name comes from its huge, leathery leaves shaped like a fiddle or violin (a lyre, in classical terms, hence “lyrata”).

Think of it like this: a Golden Retriever is a type of dog. You wouldn’t call every dog a Golden Retriever, but every Golden Retriever is a dog. Similarly, every fiddle leaf fig is a Ficus, but not every Ficus is a fiddle leaf fig. Understanding this connection is the first step in our complete is a fiddle leaf fig a type of ficus guide.

Welcome to the Family: Understanding the Mighty Ficus Genus

Knowing your fiddle leaf is a Ficus is like getting to know its entire family—and what a big, diverse family it is! The Ficus genus, part of the mulberry family (Moraceae), contains over 850 species of woody trees, shrubs, and vines.

They are found in tropical regions all over the world, and you’ve probably seen many of its relatives without even realizing it. Some of the most popular houseplant cousins to your fiddle leaf fig include:

  • The Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica): Known for its dark, glossy, and robust leaves.
  • The Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina): A classic indoor tree with smaller, delicate leaves that often line office hallways.
  • The Creeping Fig (Ficus pumila): A vining species with tiny, heart-shaped leaves that can climb walls.
  • The Ficus Audrey (Ficus benghalensis): A trendy alternative to the fiddle leaf, with soft, velvety oval leaves.

While they all look different, these family members share some key traits. Most Ficus plants, including your fiddle leaf fig, have a milky white sap that can be irritating to the skin and is toxic if ingested. They are also famous for one particular personality quirk: they are creatures of habit.

How Knowing Your Fiddle Leaf is a Ficus Unlocks Its Care Secrets

This is where everything clicks. The reason your fiddle leaf fig has a reputation for being a “diva” is because it behaves just like the rest of its Ficus family. They don’t like change. At all.

Understanding the core Ficus temperament is one of the most powerful is a fiddle leaf fig a type of ficus tips you’ll ever receive. It reframes the plant’s fussiness not as a random personality flaw, but as a predictable family trait you can work with.

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The main benefits of is a fiddle leaf fig a type of ficus knowledge is that you can anticipate its needs. Ficus plants generally:

  1. Crave Stability: Find a good spot for your Ficus and leave it there. They hate being moved, and they despise drafts, temperature swings, and inconsistent watering.
  2. Love Bright, Indirect Light: Most Ficus species grow under the canopy of larger trees in the wild. They are used to bright, dappled sunlight, not harsh, direct rays.
  3. Fear “Wet Feet”: They are highly susceptible to root rot. A Ficus would much rather be a little too dry than a little too wet.

By learning how to is a fiddle leaf fig a type of ficus care, you’re really learning the Ficus family rules. Suddenly, its behavior makes perfect sense.

The Ultimate Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) Care Guide: Best Practices

Ready to put your newfound knowledge into practice? This complete is a fiddle leaf fig a type of ficus care guide is built on the foundation of its Ficus heritage. Follow these best practices for a happy, healthy plant.

Lighting: The Golden Rule for Ficus Lyrata

This is the most critical factor. Your fiddle leaf fig needs lots of bright, indirect light. Think of the light in a room just a few feet away from a large east-facing window. It should be bright enough to read a book comfortably all day without turning on a lamp.

Direct, hot afternoon sun will scorch its beautiful leaves, leaving brown, crispy patches. Too little light will cause slow growth, yellowing lower leaves, and a sad, leggy appearance. Find the brightest spot in your home that doesn’t get hit by direct sunbeams, and make that its permanent home.

Watering: Less is More

Remember the Ficus family rule: they hate wet feet. Overwatering is the #1 killer of fiddle leaf figs. Your pot must have drainage holes. No exceptions.

Water thoroughly only when the top 2-3 inches of soil are completely dry. Stick your finger deep into the soil to check. If you feel any moisture, wait. When you do water, soak the soil completely until water runs out of the drainage holes. Then, let it drain fully and discard any excess water from the saucer.

Soil: The Perfect Foundation

Because they are prone to root rot, Ficus lyrata needs a chunky, airy, and well-draining soil mix. Standard potting soil is often too dense and holds too much water.

Look for a mix designed for aroids or Ficus, or create your own. A great recipe is one part high-quality indoor potting mix, one part perlite or pumice, and one part orchid bark. This creates the perfect balance of moisture retention and aeration that Ficus roots love.

Humidity & Temperature: Recreating the Tropics

Coming from West African rainforests, these plants appreciate warmth and humidity. They are happiest in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Keep them away from cold drafts from windows, doors, and A/C vents—a sudden chill can cause them to drop leaves.

If your home is dry (especially in winter), consider grouping it with other plants, placing it on a pebble tray with water, or using a small humidifier to boost the ambient moisture.

Fertilizing: Food for Growth

During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your fiddle leaf fig every 2-4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for houseplants. A 3-1-2 NPK ratio is often recommended. Always dilute it to half-strength to avoid burning the roots. In the fall and winter, when growth slows, you can stop fertilizing altogether.

Common Problems with Fiddle Leaf Figs (And How Its Ficus Nature Explains Them)

When you encounter issues, think like a Ficus! Here are some common problems with is a fiddle leaf fig a type of ficus and how its family traits explain them.

Brown Spots: The Dreaded Scourge

Dark brown, soft spots, especially near the bottom of the leaves, are almost always a sign of root rot from overwatering—the classic Ficus ailment. Smaller, reddish-brown spots that spread can indicate a bacterial or fungal issue, which is also exacerbated by overly moist conditions.

The Fix: Immediately scale back on watering. Check the roots; if they are brown and mushy, you may need to repot into fresh, dry soil, trimming away the dead roots.

Dropping Leaves: The Ficus Tantrum

Did you just move your plant? Did the season change, causing a draft from a nearby vent to kick on? A fiddle leaf fig dropping its lower leaves is the classic Ficus “tantrum.” It’s a dramatic reaction to a change in its environment.

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The Fix: Assess its location. Is it getting enough light? Is it near a draft? Find the right spot and keep it there. Consistency is key.

Yellowing Leaves: A Cry for Help

Yellowing leaves, particularly lower ones, are most often another sign of overwatering. The plant is trying to shed excess water by dropping leaves. It can also be a sign of a nutrient deficiency, but always check your watering habits first.

The Fix: Let the soil dry out completely. Ensure your pot has excellent drainage.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Fiddle Leaf Fig Care Tips

Caring for your Ficus can be a green practice. Incorporating sustainable is a fiddle leaf fig a type of ficus care is easy and benefits both your plant and the planet.

  • Water Wisely: Use water from a dehumidifier or collected rainwater to give your plants a nutrient boost without turning on the tap.
  • Choose Peat-Free Soil: Peat bogs are vital ecosystems. Opt for eco-friendly is a fiddle leaf fig a type of ficus soil mixes that use renewable resources like coco coir as a base.
  • Natural Pest Control: Instead of chemical pesticides, use neem oil or a simple insecticidal soap made from dish soap and water to tackle common pests like spider mites and mealybugs.
  • Propagate and Share: Don’t throw away healthy prunings! A single leaf cutting with a piece of the stem can be propagated in water to grow a whole new plant to share with a friend.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fiddle Leaf Figs as a Ficus

What’s the difference between a Fiddle Leaf Fig and a Ficus?

There is no difference in the sense that one is separate from the other. A Fiddle Leaf Fig (common name) is a specific type of Ficus (the plant’s genus or family name). Its scientific name is Ficus lyrata.

Do all Ficus plants need the same care as a Fiddle Leaf Fig?

They share many core needs, like a love for bright, indirect light and a hatred for overwatering and being moved. However, specific needs can vary. For example, a Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) can tolerate lower light and likes more consistent moisture than a Ficus lyrata.

Why is my Fiddle Leaf Fig not growing any new leaves?

The most common reason is insufficient light. It may be surviving in a lower-light spot, but it needs bright, indirect light to have the energy for new growth. It could also be a sign that it needs to be fertilized during the growing season.

Is the milky sap from a Fiddle Leaf Fig poisonous?

Yes, the white, latex sap is toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested. It can also cause skin irritation. It’s best to wear gloves when pruning and to keep the plant out of reach of curious pets and children.

Your Ficus, Your Friend

So, the next time someone asks you, “is a fiddle leaf fig a type of ficus?” you can answer with a confident “Yes!” and even explain why that matters.

You now understand that its dramatic tendencies aren’t personal—they’re just family traits. By respecting its need for stability, providing the bright, dappled light of its ancestral home, and watering with a careful hand, you have all the tools you need for success.

Embrace its Ficus nature, and you’ll find that the fiddle leaf fig isn’t a diva after all. It’s a beautiful, rewarding plant that just wants a little understanding. Go forth and grow with confidence!

Rimon Chowdhury
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