Both the Fiddle Leaf Fig and the Bambino belong to the same species, Ficus lyrata, and are part of the Moraceae (mulberry) family. They are not different species but rather different cultivated varieties, or cultivars, of the same plant. The standard Fiddle Leaf Fig is the original form, native to the lowland tropical rainforests of western Africa. The Bambino, on the other hand, is a dwarf cultivar that has been selectively bred for its compact growth habit. This means that while they share identical genetic roots, the Bambino is a intentionally developed, smaller version of the classic Fiddle Leaf Fig.
This is the most dramatic and visually apparent difference between the two plants. A standard Fiddle Leaf Fig is a large, tree-like plant known for its vigorous vertical growth. In its native habitat, it can reach heights of 40-50 feet, and as a container plant indoors, it can easily grow to 6-10 feet or more with proper care. It develops a strong, central trunk and a spreading canopy. In contrast, the Bambino is a compact, dwarf variety. It typically maxes out at around 3-4 feet in height indoors. It grows much more slowly and has a bushier, more columnar form with leaves that emerge from the base upwards, often lacking the pronounced single trunk of its larger counterpart.
While the leaves of both plants have the characteristic fiddle- or lyre-shape that gives the species its name, there are subtle distinctions. The standard Fiddle Leaf Fig produces very large, broad, and leathery leaves that can grow up to 15 inches long and 10 inches wide. The leaves are often slightly more cupped or wavy at the edges. The Bambino's leaves are significantly smaller, typically reaching only 5-6 inches in length. They are proportionally narrower and tend to be thicker and more densely clustered along the stem. The texture is often described as more rigid, and the classic shape is sometimes even more pronounced due to the smaller size.
Both cultivars require bright, indirect light to thrive, as they are understory trees in nature. However, their care differs slightly due to their size and growth rate. The standard Fiddle Leaf Fig, with its large leaves, is notoriously sensitive to changes in its environment, requiring consistent watering, humidity, and light to prevent leaf drop. Its rapid growth may also require more frequent repotting and fertilization during the growing season. The Bambino, being slower-growing and more compact, is often considered a slightly more manageable and forgiving plant. It is less likely to become leggy in search of light and generally requires less space, making it better suited for smaller apartments or as a tabletop plant.
