Artificial Ficus Tree: All About the ‘It’ Tree

The artificial ficus tree has become an interior design staple, blending the beauty of nature with the convenience of modern living.

If you’re in one of the following baskets:

• You want to add no-frills greenery to your home;
• You need green decor ideas;
• You love ficus plants;

Then keep reading, this blog’s for you and will walk you through everything you need to know.

We’ll talk about what a ficus tree is and help you choose the best artificial options. So, if you want to know more about it, we’ve got you covered.

What Is a Ficus Tree?

The ficus tree, native to tropical regions like Southeast Asia and parts of Australia, is a popular choice among plant enthusiasts for its lush, glossy leaves and elegant structure.

In scientific circles, it’s called Ficus benjamina and is part of the Moraceae family. This beauty can grow up to 30 metres tall in the wild.

But if you cultivate them indoors, they usually stay much smaller. This adaptability is one of the key reasons why they’re a common sight in homes.

Ficus trees are usually easy to maintain. They need moderate light and occasional watering, but they can sometimes be quite fussy. Unfortunately, they often drop leaves if their needs are not met as a sign of revolt.

Nonetheless, they’re the internet’s sweethearts right now, trending on every social media platform you can think of.

The culprit behind their popularity and the main reason why you may see more fiddle leafs instead of monsteras is that the ficus tree has become a design icon. According to the Los Angeles Times, this species has skyrocketed to fame among interior designers for its large, violin-shaped leaves that add a dramatic flair to any room.

The height, slender stem and broad leaves fill up any dull corner with little effort, so it’s not hard to see why they’re so beloved.

What is a Faux Ficus?

A faux ficus tree is an artificial version of the natural ficus. It mimics the appearance of the real tree without any of the fuss that comes with it.

Since some people want to be part of the club but don’t have the green thumb to keep real ficus trees alive, they opt for faux ficus trees. To avoid the temperament of natural foliage, many would rather decorate with a low-maintenance alternative that doesn’t cause them any stress.

Artificial ficus trees, on the other hand, offer the same visual appeal but without the worry of dropping leaves or needing to water regularly.

Is Ficus the Same as Fig?

The term “ficus” refers to a broad genus of trees, shrubs, and vines, including the popular fig tree. While all figs are ficus, not all ficus trees are figs.

Figs are the most well-known type of ficus, and their popularity is largely due to their fruit-bearing nature.

However, many people appreciate ficus trees for their foliage rather than the fruit, which is why different varieties like the fiddle leaf fig have become so popular.

Can You Put a Fake Ficus Tree Outside?

Yes, you can place a fake ficus tree outside, just like any other artificial plant. Yet, there are some considerations to keep in mind.

First, if your artificial ficus is not UV-resistant, you need to apply a UV-protective spray to prevent the color from fading in the sunlight.

Additionally, ensure that you anchor the tree into the ground to keep it sturdy and avoid damage from adverse weather. Check a few times to see if it’s secure before proceeding.

Faux ficus trees for outdoor use typically contain more durable materials that can withstand the elements. But don’t just assume that all products have these traits. Instead, always check the specifications before placing them outside. If possible, ask the manufacturer or supplier if it’s okay to do so.

How Do You Clean an Artificial Ficus Tree?

While your artificial ficus tree doesn’t need the same care and upkeep as the real thing, you should still clean it regularly to keep it fresh. Here’s how you do that quickly and efficiently:

• Step 1: Dust the leaves with a soft, dry cloth or a feather duster.
• Step 2: Wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth to remove stubborn dirt.
• Step 3: Spray the leaves with water and mild soap, then rinse with clean water.
• Step 4: Allow the tree to air dry completely before placing it back in its spot.

You can do this whenever you see your faux ficus’ shine beginning to dull from a buildup of dust. From experience, that happens once every one or two months, depending on location. You’re the judge here.

How to Choose an Artificial Ficus Tree?

When choosing an artificial ficus tree, consider the following tips:

• Material Quality: Opt for high-quality materials like silk or PE (polyethylene) to ensure the tree looks realistic.
• Size and Height: Measure the space where you plan to place the tree to choose the appropriate size.
• Leaf Detail: Look for trees with varied leaf sizes and realistic colouration for a more authentic look. Artificial trees should be imperfect, just like real ones.
• Pot Style: Consider the pot that comes with the tree or plan to re-pot it in a container that matches your decor.
• Indoor vs. Outdoor: Ensure the tree is suitable for your location, especially if you plan on placing it outdoors.

If you need more help with choice, check out our blog on the topic or reach out to us for advice.

3 Best Artificial Ficus Trees

If you want artificial trees that look real, you don’t have to look too far. Nowadays, the market offers a wide range of options, each with unique features.

Here are three of the most popular choices from our collection among homeowners:

Faux Fiddle Leaf Fig

The faux fiddle leaf fig is one of the most sought-after artificial trees. Thanks to its large, glossy leaves, it’s a sight to behold in any space.

This tree in our selection is UV-resistant, which means it can ‘thrive’ both indoors and outdoors without any sun damage. Its realistic appearance and durability make it a top choice for anyone looking to enhance their decor with elegance in as little as an hour.

Source: Designer Plants AU