Ficus Repens vs Ficus Pumila: A Comparison of Creeping Figs

Creeping figs are a popular choice for adding greenery and texture to indoor and outdoor spaces. Two common varieties of creeping figs are Ficus Repens and Ficus Pumila. 

Although they share similarities, they also have distinct characteristics that set them apart. In this article, I will compare Ficus Repens and Ficus Pumila, highlighting their differences and similarities.

Key Takeaways:

• Ficus Repens and Ficus Pumila are both varieties of creeping figs, belonging to the mulberry family.
• Ficus Repens is native to central and southern China, while Ficus Pumila is commonly found in warmer climates.
• Ficus Repens has smaller leaves compared to Ficus Pumila, which has waxy green leaves.
• Both varieties can be grown as houseplants or in outdoor gardens, but Ficus Repens prefers high humidity while Ficus Pumila tolerates drought.
• Ficus Repens can climb up to 15 feet high and spread 3 to 6 feet wide, attaching itself to walls or supports, while Ficus Pumila can form a thick horizontal carpet.

Ficus Repens Growth Habits

Ficus Repens, also known as creeping fig, is a vigorous climber that can reach heights of up to 15 feet and spread 3 to 6 feet wide under favorable conditions. It attaches itself to walls or supports with clusters of short roots, similar to English ivy. When grown indoors, Ficus Repens thrives in bright indirect light or part shade, and it should be protected from direct afternoon sun.

Regular watering is necessary during the growing season, with reduced watering required from fall to late winter. Pruning can be done as needed without causing harm to the plant. To overwinter more reliably, Ficus Repens is best grown on a south-facing wall. It is drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and moderately salt-tolerant.

As a houseplant, Ficus Repens prefers high humidity and a soil-based potting mix. It thrives in environments with average to above-average relative humidity levels. Providing proper care, including adequate watering and humidity, will help ensure the health and growth of Ficus Repens as a houseplant.

Table: Comparison of Ficus Repens and Ficus Pumila Growth Habits

Aspect	Ficus Repens	Ficus Pumila
Maximum Height	Up to 15 feet	20 feet or higher with support
Spread	3 to 6 feet wide	Forms a thick horizontal carpet
Attachment	Clusters of short roots	Aerial rootlets
Light Preferences	Bright indirect light or part shade	Partial shade, but can tolerate full sun
Watering Needs	Regular watering during growing season, reduced watering in fall to late winter	Moist soil, but can tolerate drought
Humidity Preference	High humidity	Tolerates average humidity levels
Care Tips	Pruning as needed; overwinter on south-facing wall	Pruning as needed; can tolerate freezing temperatures

With its fascinating growth habits and adaptability, Ficus Repens is a beautiful addition to any indoor or outdoor garden. Its ability to thrive in various lighting conditions and withstand drought makes it a versatile plant for different environments. 

By providing the right care and conditions, you can enjoy the natural beauty of Ficus Repens and create a lush, green atmosphere in your space.

Ficus Pumila Growth Habits

Ficus Pumila, also known as creeping fig, is a small, woody vine that displays unique growth habits. This evergreen plant can climb objects up to 20 feet or higher with the help of aerial rootlets. However, if left without support, it will spread indefinitely, forming a thick horizontal carpet across gardens or rock walls. The growth habit of Ficus Pumila makes it an excellent choice for ground cover or for creating green walls.

When it comes to care, Ficus Pumila prefers moist, well-drained, organically rich soil. It thrives in partial shade, but it can also tolerate full sun. This versatility allows gardeners to grow Ficus Pumila in various locations with different lighting conditions.

Unlike some other plants, Ficus Pumila has a fast growth rate and is known for its ability to fend for itself. It can tolerate drought and even withstand some freezing temperatures. As a result, Ficus Pumila is a hardy plant that requires minimal maintenance once established.

To ensure optimal growth and appearance, it is recommended to plant Ficus Pumila in an area that can accommodate its spreading growth habit. It’s important to note that this plant has the potential to destroy wooden structures, so careful consideration should be given to its placement.

Table: Comparing Ficus Repens and Ficus Pumila Growth Habits

Characteristics	Ficus Repens	Ficus Pumila
Growth Height	Up to 15 feet	20 feet or higher
Growth Spread	3 to 6 feet	Indefinite spread
Attachment Method	Short roots	Aerial rootlets
Preferred Lighting	Bright indirect light	Partial shade (can tolerate full sun)
Tolerance to Drought	Low	High
Tolerance to Freezing Temperatures	Low	Moderate
Tolerance to Salt	Moderate	Moderate
Recommended Placement	High humidity, well-drained soil	Moist, well-drained, organically rich soil

Similarities Between Ficus Repens and Ficus Pumila

When comparing Ficus Repens and Ficus Pumila, two varieties of creeping figs, it’s clear that they share several similarities. Both species belong to the mulberry family and are evergreen climbers that can be grown as houseplants or in outdoor gardens.

One common characteristic of Ficus Repens and Ficus Pumila is their preference for well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They both thrive when provided with regular watering, although the frequency may vary depending on the specific climate and growing conditions.

In terms of their growth habits, both Ficus Repens and Ficus Pumila have the ability to attach themselves to walls or supports. They exhibit a creeping growth habit, which allows them to spread and cover vertical or horizontal surfaces.

While Ficus Repens prefers bright indirect light, Ficus Pumila is more tolerant of full sun exposure. Both varieties can be pruned without causing harm to the plant, making it easier to manage their growth and shape them according to your preferences.