15 Beautiful Ficus Lyrata Varieties For Every Space

Ficus Lyrata, commonly known as the Fiddle Leaf Fig, is a beloved houseplant that has charmed plant enthusiasts around the world with its large, striking leaves. But did you know that within the Ficus family, there are different Ficus Lyrata varieties, each with its unique characteristics?

Common Ficus Lyrata Varieties

Here’s a quick look at the array of Ficus Lyrata varieties:

1. Standard Ficus lyrata (Common Fiddle-Leaf Fig)
2. Ficus lyrata ‘Bambino’ (Dwarf Fiddle-Leaf Fig)
3. Ficus lyrata ‘Compacta’ (Compact Fiddle-Leaf Fig)
4. Variegated Ficus lyrata
5. Ficus lyrata ‘Suncoast’
6. Ficus lyrata ‘Little Fiddle’
7. Ficus lyrata ‘Audrey’ (Ficus benghalensis ‘Audrey’)
8. Ficus lyrata ‘Mistral’
9. Ficus lyrata ‘Superba’
10. Ficus lyrata ‘Midnight Beauty’
11. Ficus lyrata ‘Oak Leaf’
12. Ficus lyrata ‘Bushy King’
13. Ficus lyrata ‘Tall Boy’
14. Ficus lyrata ‘Evergreen’
15. Ficus lyrata ‘Fiddle Leaf’

Ficus Lyrata Bambino

Ficus Lyrata Bambino is a charming and petite member of the Ficus Lyrata family. Here’s what you should know about it:

Smaller Stature: Bambino, as the name suggests, is smaller in size compared to the standard Ficus Lyrata. It’s perfect for those with limited space.

Unique Features: Despite its smaller size, Ficus Lyrata Bambino retains the classic large, violin-shaped leaves that make Fiddle Leaf Figs so desirable.

Perfect for Compact Spaces: Its compact nature makes it a great choice for apartments, offices, or anyone looking to add a touch of greenery without taking up too much room.

Ficus Lyrata Bush

Ficus Lyrata Bush is known for its lush, bushier growth habit. Here are some of its distinctive traits:

Bushier Growth: Ficus Lyrata Bush tends to have a more abundant and compact form, making it ideal for those seeking a fuller, bushier look.

Distinctive Appearance: While it shares the characteristic large leaves with other Ficus Lyrata varieties, the way the leaves are packed together creates a unique visual appeal.

Perfect for Decor: Ficus Lyrata Bush is well-suited for adding a touch of elegance to home decor, making it a popular choice among interior designers.

Choosing the Right Ficus Lyrata Variety for You

When selecting a Ficus lyrata variety, consider your space, light conditions, and personal preferences. Smaller varieties like ‘Bambino’ or ‘Little Fiddle’ are great for apartments or offices, while the standard or ‘Superba’ varieties make stunning statements in larger spaces.

For those looking for something unique, variegated forms or the wavy-leafed ‘Mistral’ can add extra visual interest. If you’re new to plant care or have less-than-ideal conditions, hardier varieties like ‘Suncoast’ or ‘Audrey’ might be better choices.

Ficus Lyrata Varieties Tips for Interior Design

The popularity of Ficus lyrata in interior design has soared in recent years. Here’s how different varieties can be used:

1. Statement Pieces: Large standard varieties or ‘Superba’ can serve as stunning focal points in living rooms or entryways.
2. Tabletop Accents: Smaller varieties like ‘Bambino’ or ‘Little Fiddle’ are perfect for coffee tables, desks, or shelves.
3. Texture and Color: Variegated varieties add a unique splash of color and texture to monochromatic or minimalist decor schemes.
4. Layered Greenery: Mix different Ficus lyrata varieties with other plants for a lush, jungle-like atmosphere.

Sizes and Growth Characteristics

While standard Ficus Lyrata can reach heights of six to ten feet, Ficus Lyrata Bambino stays more compact, and Ficus Lyrata Bush has its unique bushy form. Growth patterns can vary, affecting the height, leaf size, and overall form.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Each Ficus Lyrata variety has its preferences when it comes to environmental conditions. Providing the right conditions is key to their well-being:

Light: All Ficus Lyrata varieties thrive in bright, indirect light. Place them near a window with filtered sunlight to prevent leaf burn.

Temperature: Keep your Ficus Lyrata in a room with a stable temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Avoid drafts and sudden temperature changes.

Humidity: While not overly demanding, moderate humidity benefits all Ficus Lyrata varieties. Increase humidity if your indoor air is dry, using methods like humidity trays or occasional misting.

Care Considerations

Ficus Lyrata will appreciate tailored attention:

Watering: Allow the top inch of the soil to dry before watering. The frequency may vary based on your home’s specific conditions.

Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent root rot. Repot as needed to accommodate your plant’s growth.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season, typically spring and summer. Reduce or halt fertilization during the dormant season (fall and winter).

So, whether you opt for the classic Ficus Lyrata or one of its charming variations like Ficus Lyrata Bambino or the bushier Ficus Lyrata Bush, there’s a Fiddle Leaf Fig for every space and style. Tailor your care to the specific variety and enjoy the elegance and greenery they bring to your home.

Conclusion

The world of Ficus lyrata varieties offers something for every plant lover, from compact forms perfect for small spaces to rare variegated beauties for collectors. By understanding the unique characteristics and care requirements of each variety, you can choose the perfect fiddle-leaf fig to thrive in your home or office. Whether you’re drawn to the classic elegance of the standard Ficus lyrata or intrigued by the unique forms of its cultivars, there’s a fiddle-leaf fig variety waiting to become the star of your indoor garden.