What Variety of Ficus Tree Plants Grow Outside
Ficus trees are some of the most popular indoor plants around. They are easy to care for, can thrive in low light, and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. But did you know that some ficus trees can also grow outside? In this article, we'll take a look at the different varieties of ficus trees that can be grown outdoors.
Ficus microcarpa
Also known as Chinese banyan, this variety of ficus tree is a great choice for outdoor gardens. It can grow up to 50 feet tall and has a broad canopy that provides plenty of shade. The leaves are small and glossy, and the tree produces small, fig-like fruits. Chinese banyan is native to Southeast Asia but can also be found in other parts of the world, including Florida and California. It prefers full sun or partial shade and well-draining soil.
Ficus benjamina
Ficus benjamina, also known as weeping fig, is a popular indoor plant but can also be grown outside in warm climates. It can grow up to 60 feet tall and has a slender, tapered trunk with branches that arch downward. The leaves are glossy and oval-shaped, and the tree produces small, greenish-yellow figs. Weeping fig is native to Southeast Asia but is now commonly cultivated in the tropics around the world. It prefers full sun or partial shade and well-draining soil.
Ficus elastica
Also known as rubber tree, this variety of ficus tree is a popular indoor plant but can also be grown outside in warm climates. It can grow up to 100 feet tall and has a thick, stout trunk with large, leathery leaves. The tree produces small, orange fruits that are edible but not commonly consumed. Rubber tree is native to Southeast Asia but is now commonly cultivated around the world. It prefers full sun or partial shade and well-draining soil.
Ficus lyrata
Also known as fiddle leaf fig, this variety of ficus tree is a popular indoor plant but can also be grown outside in warm climates. It can grow up to 40 feet tall and has a slender, upright trunk with large, violin-shaped leaves. The tree produces small, green figs that are not edible. Fiddle leaf fig is native to West Africa but is now commonly cultivated around the world. It prefers partial shade and well-draining soil.
Ficus carica
Also known as common fig, this variety of ficus tree is a great choice for outdoor gardens. It can grow up to 30 feet tall and has a spreading, bushy canopy with large, lobed leaves. The tree produces sweet, edible figs that are often used in cooking and can be eaten raw or dried. Common fig is native to the Middle East but is now commonly cultivated around the world. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil.
These are just a few of the many varieties of ficus trees that can be grown outside. Whether you're looking for a shade tree, a fruit tree, or an ornamental tree, there's a ficus tree that's perfect for your garden. Just be sure to choose a variety that's suited to the climate and soil conditions in your area, and give it plenty of care and attention to ensure it grows healthy and strong.