The difference between small leaf fig and tiger fig
In the choice of green plants at home, small leaf fig and tiger fig are often confused. Although the two belong to the Ficus family, they have significant differences in many dimensions. This article uses six sets of comparative experimental data and botanical characteristics analysis to help you systematically understand the essential differences between these two popular ornamental plants. Comparative analysis of morphological characteristics The leaves of Ficus microflora are elliptical, with an average length of 3- 5 cm, a thick surface wax layer, and feather distribution of veins. The leaves of Ficus tigeri can reach 8-12cm in length, with wavy folds on the edges, and the new leaves have red-brown markings. When mature, they turn into yellow and white mottled patterns. This is also the origin of the name "tiger skin." Growth characteristics of branches and branches of Ficus microphyllum have strong upright trunk, smooth and gray-white skin, and developed aerial roots. The branches of Ficus tigeri are more malleable, the young branches are red-brown, and longitudinal cracks appear on the epidermis of adult plants, forming a unique texture. The experimental data of light demand gradient interpretation of differences in growth habits shows that the photosynthetic efficiency of Ficus tigeri reaches its peak at the light intensity of 30000lux, while the microphylla microphylla appears photoinhibition at 20000lux. Ficus tigeri needs to maintain a full sun environment all year round. Ficus microphylla needs to be shaded by 30%-40% in summer and can accept direct light in winter. Key points for temperature and humidity control are the fastest growing rate of Ficus tigeri in the range of 25-32℃, and falling leaves will appear below 15℃. Ficus microphylla has a wider tolerance range and can grow normally at 18-35 ° C. The air humidity needs to be maintained above 60%. The leaves can be maintained moist through atomization and humidification. Key points of maintenance techniques analyze the difference in substrate formula. The cultivation substrate of Ficus tigeri should use a ratio of peat soil: perlite: vermiculite =5:3:2, and the EC value should be controlled at 1.2-1.8mS/cm. The medium of fig leaf can be selected from garden soil: legular soil: river sand =4:4:2. Appropriate bone meal can be added to increase the calcium content, and the pH value is maintained at 6.0-6.5. Water and fertilizer management plan The watering cycle of Ficus tigeri is 5-7 days per time in spring and autumn, and 3-4 days per time in summer. The "see dry and see wet" method is adopted. Ficus microphylla needs to keep the substrate moist, replenish water every 2 days during the growth period, and combine it with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted 1500 times twice a month. Textual research on species taxonomy According to the records in the Flora of China, Ficus concinna and Ficus elastica 'Tineke' belong to different species in plant taxonomy. DNA sequencing data showed that the genomic similarity of the two was only 78.6%, confirming that they were independent species. The former is native to southern China, while the latter is a horticultural variety of Indian rubber fig.
Through systematic comparison, it can be seen that there are essential differences between the two plants in terms of genetic level, morphological characteristics and maintenance requirements. Correct identification of differences will help targeted maintenance. It is recommended to reasonably select cultivated varieties according to the light intensity and temperature and humidity conditions of the living environment.