Calla vs Ficus Plant Comparison
Compare these two plants side by side — care needs, key differences, and which is right for your home.
Calla
Zantedeschia aethiopica
Zantedeschia aethiopica, commonly known as Calla Lily, is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial prized for its elegant, trumpet-shaped spathes (modified leaves) that surround a central spadix. While often called a lily, it is not a true lily. It grows from rhizomes, producing large, arrow-shaped, glossy green leaves. It is primarily an outdoor plant, thriving in moist conditions. People grow it for its striking flowers, often used in bouquets and floral arrangements. It can be grown indoors, but requires specific conditions to thrive and may not flower as readily as outdoors.
Ficus
Ficus elastica
Ficus elastica, commonly known as the Rubber Plant, is a popular houseplant valued for its glossy, leathery leaves. In its native habitat, it can grow into a massive tree, but when grown indoors, it typically remains a manageable size. The plant features a single trunk with large, oval-shaped leaves that emerge reddish-bronze and mature to a deep green. Some cultivars exhibit variegation. It's grown for its ornamental foliage and relatively easy care, though it does require specific conditions to thrive indoors. It is primarily an outdoor tree.
Quick Plant Comparison
| Feature | Calla | Ficus |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright, indirect light to full sun outdoors. Indoors, provide bright indirect light, ideally near an east- or west-facing window. | Bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun, but avoid harsh afternoon sun. |
| Watering | Every 3-7 days during the growing season, less frequently in winter. | Every 1-2 weeks, depending on environmental conditions |
| Humidity | 40-60% | 40-60% |
| Temperature | 18-24°C | 18-24°C |
| Care Level | Moderate | Moderate |
| Growth Rate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Max Height | Indoors: 0.6-1 meter | 1-3 meters indoors |
| Pet Safety | ❌ Toxic To Pets | ❌ Toxic To Pets |
| Soil | Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and compost is suitable. | Well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. |
| Beginner Friendly | With Caution | With Caution |
| Weekly Maintenance | 10 minutes weekly | 10 minutes weekly |
🔬 Botanical Information — Comparing These Plants
Calla
| Scientific Name | Zantedeschia aethiopica |
|---|---|
| Family | Araceae |
| Native To | South Africa |
| Also Known As | Calla Lily, Arum Lily, Trumpet Lily |
| Leaves | Large, arrow-shaped, glossy green leaves. The leaves can be up to 45 cm long and 25 cm wide. Some varieties have speckled or variegated leaves. |
| Flowers | Can flower indoors with proper care, but more reliably flowers outdoors. The 'flower' is a modified leaf called a spathe, which is typically white, but can also be pink, yellow, orange, or purple. The spadix, the yellow spike in the center, is where the true flowers are located. |
Ficus
| Scientific Name | Ficus elastica |
|---|---|
| Family | Moraceae |
| Native To | Southeast Asia (India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar) |
| Also Known As | Rubber Plant, Rubber Tree, Indian Rubber Bush, Rubber Fig |
| Leaves | Large, oval-shaped leaves that are typically 10-30 cm long and 5-15 cm wide. New leaves emerge reddish-bronze and mature to a deep green. The leaves are thick, leathery, and have a glossy surface. Some cultivars have variegated leaves with cream or yellow markings. |
| Flowers | Rarely flowers indoors. In its native habitat, it produces small, inconspicuous flowers within a syconium (a fig). |
📏 Size & Growth — Plant Comparison
Calla
Ficus
🌱 Propagation — Comparing Plant Growth
Calla
Methods: Division, Seed
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: Divide rhizomes in early spring before new growth begins. Ensure each division has at least one eye (bud). Plant divisions in well-draining soil and keep moist. Seed propagation is possible but slower.
Ficus
Methods: Stem cuttings, Air layering
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: Take stem cuttings with at least one leaf node. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in moist potting mix. Provide warmth and humidity. Air layering involves wounding a stem and wrapping it in moist sphagnum moss until roots develop.
✨ Benefits & Features — Comparing Plant Value
Calla
The Calla Lily is not a true lily, but a rhizomatous perennial with a unique spathe and spadix flower structure. Its elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers make it a popular choice for bouquets and floral arrangements. It requires a dormant period in winter to promote flowering in the following season.
- ✓ Aesthetically pleasing flowers.
- ✓ Can be used for cut flower arrangements.
- ✓ Adds a touch of elegance to any room.
- ✓ Can improve mood and reduce stress.
- ✓ Provides a sense of accomplishment through successful care.
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
Ficus
The glossy, leathery leaves are a standout feature. The plant can also produce aerial roots in humid environments. The red sheath that protects new leaves is also unique.
- ✓ Improved air quality
- ✓ Aesthetic appeal with its glossy foliage
- ✓ Relatively easy to care for
- ✓ Can add a touch of the tropics to any space
- ✓ Can help reduce stress levels
- 🌬️ NASA-verified air purifier
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
📅 Maintenance Schedule — Plant Care Comparison
Calla
Ficus
🌞 Light Requirements
Calla
Bright, indirect light to full sun outdoors. Indoors, provide bright indirect light, ideally near an east- or west-facing window.
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
Ficus
Bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun, but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
💧 Watering Needs
Calla
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering in the dormant period. Overwatering can lead to rhizome rot, indicated by yellowing leaves and a foul odor. Underwatering results in wilting and browning leaf tips.
Ficus
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. Allow excess water to drain away. Overwatering can lead to root rot, indicated by yellowing or dropping leaves. Underwatering results in drooping leaves and dry, crispy edges.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Calla
Temperature: 18-24°C
Humidity: 40-60%
Ficus
Temperature: 18-24°C
Humidity: 40-60%
🤔 Which Plant Is Right For You?
Calla
Zantedeschia aethiopicaExperienced plant enthusiasts seeking a flowering plant with elegant blooms, willing to provide specific care requirements.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You appreciate elegant, trumpet-shaped flowers.
- You can provide bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.
- You are willing to provide a dormant period in winter.
- You are experienced with plant care and can address potential problems.
- You want a plant that can be used for cut flower arrangements.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You have pets that may ingest the plant.
- You cannot provide bright light or consistent moisture.
- You are a beginner plant owner.
- You prefer low-maintenance plants.
Ficus
Ficus elasticaIndividuals seeking a statement plant with relatively easy care, provided they can meet its light and humidity needs.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You want a striking, easy-to-care-for statement plant.
- You have a bright, indirect light location.
- You are looking for a plant that helps purify the air.
- You appreciate the glossy, leathery foliage.
- You are willing to wipe the leaves regularly to keep them dust-free.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You have pets that might ingest the plant, as it is toxic.
- You have a low-light environment.
- You are prone to overwatering plants.
🎯 Quick Verdict
⚡ Key Differences Between These Plants
Both plants have similar basic care requirements but differ in appearance and specific needs. Compare plants carefully to find the best fit for your space.
💡 Pro Tips For Comparing These Plants
Calla Care Tips
Calla Lilies require bright light and consistent moisture. They can be grown indoors, but may not flower as readily as outdoors. Ensure good drainage to prevent rhizome rot. Toxicity to pets is a significant concern. Requires a dormant period in winter.
- Provide a dormant period in winter by reducing watering and keeping the plant in a cool location.
- Ensure good drainage to prevent rhizome rot.
- Fertilize regularly during the growing season to promote flowering.
- Monitor for pests and diseases and treat promptly.
- Provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth and flowering.
Ficus Care Tips
Ficus elastica requires bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Avoid overwatering and provide adequate humidity. Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust. It can be sensitive to changes in its environment, so avoid frequent relocation. Primarily an outdoor tree, it needs specific conditions to thrive indoors.
- Wipe leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve photosynthesis.
- Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even growth.
- Avoid placing the plant near drafts or heating vents.
- Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
- Fertilize regularly during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
⚠️ Common Problems & Solutions — Plant Care Comparison
Calla
Ficus
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Comparing These Plants
Calla
What are the light requirements for Calla?
Calla lilies thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so avoid placing them in south-facing windows without some form of shading. An east- or west-facing window is ideal, providing ample light without the intensity of direct sun. If you notice the leaves becoming pale or the plant failing to bloom, it may not be receiving enough light. In such cases, consider supplementing with artificial grow lights. During the darker winter months, supplemental lighting is particularly beneficial to maintain healthy growth and encourage future blooms. Ensure the light is diffused to prevent leaf burn. Regular rotation of the plant ensures all sides receive adequate light, preventing uneven growth.
How do I care for Calla?
Calla lilies require bright, indirect light for optimal growth and blooming. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring proper drainage to prevent root rot. During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize every 2-4 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength to encourage flowering. Reduce watering and fertilization during the dormant period in fall and winter. Maintain a humidity level of 50-60%. Repot annually in spring using well-draining potting mix. Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Monitor for pests like aphids and spider mites, and treat promptly if detected. Provide support for taller varieties to prevent them from bending. Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even growth and prevent leaning towards the light source. Protect from frost and freezing temperatures.
How do I propagate Calla?
Calla lilies can be propagated by division, stem cuttings (though less common), and keiki (small plantlets that sometimes form on the plant).
Ficus
What are the light requirements for Ficus?
Ficus plants need bright, indirect light to thrive. Insufficient light can lead to leaf drop and leggy growth. An east-facing window is ideal, providing gentle morning sun. West-facing windows can work, but shield the plant from intense afternoon sun to prevent leaf burn. A south-facing window may be too bright, requiring a sheer curtain to diffuse the light. If natural light is limited, supplement with a grow light. Monitor your Ficus for signs of inadequate light, such as pale leaves or slow growth. Rotate the plant regularly to ensure all sides receive adequate light. Avoid placing Ficus in dark corners or hallways.
How do I care for Ficus?
Ficus plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot. Maintain moderate to high humidity, especially during winter. Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Repot every 1-2 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound, using a well-draining potting mix. Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Protect from drafts and sudden temperature changes, as Ficus are sensitive to environmental fluctuations. Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust and promote photosynthesis. Rotate the plant occasionally to ensure even growth on all sides. Consistent care is key to a healthy and thriving Ficus.
How do I propagate Ficus?
Ficus can be propagated by stem cuttings or air layering. For stem cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in moist potting mix and cover with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect light. Roots should develop in 4-6 weeks. For air layering, make a small cut on a stem, wrap the cut with moist sphagnum moss, and cover with plastic wrap. Secure the wrap with tape. Once roots develop within the moss, cut the stem below the roots and plant in potting mix. Ensure stable conditions.
Last updated: April 18, 2026 — Plant care data reviewed and verified by our editorial team.