Fig vs Bastard Cedar West Indian elm

Fig (Ficus carica) and Bastard Cedar West Indian elm (Guazuma ulmifolia) — side-by-side cultivation, uses, and safety.

SIDE A

Ficus carica (Fig) — botanical photograph

Side-by-side attributes

Attribute	Fig	Bastard Cedar West Indian elm
Latin name	Ficus carica	Guazuma ulmifolia
Family	Moraceae	Moraceae
Edible	yes	yes
Medicinal	no	no
Life cycle	Perennial	—
Mature height	6.0 m	30.0 m
Light	Full sun	Full sun
Water	Dry, Moist	Moist
Soil	Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)	Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness	6-12	10-12
pH range	—	—
Edible parts	Fruit, Sap	Fruit, Seed
Propagation	—	—

III

Which to pick

Both have their place

Fig and Bastard Cedar West Indian elm cover similar territory. Pick based on what you can actually grow (climate, soil) and what's locally available. See the cultivation rows above for the deciding factors.

Frequently asked

What is the main difference between Fig and Bastard Cedar West Indian elm?

Fig (Ficus carica) and Bastard Cedar West Indian elm (Guazuma ulmifolia) are both in the Moraceae family. See the side-by-side table above for cultivation needs, edible parts, and medicinal uses.

Can Fig and Bastard Cedar West Indian elm be combined?

Plant combinations should be evaluated case by case. Check the safety/contraindications section on each plant's profile (Fig and Bastard Cedar West Indian elm) before mixing. Some combinations are synergistic, others can interact with medication.

Are these plants safe?

Every plant profile includes a Cautions section with contraindications, drug interactions, and population warnings. Consult a healthcare professional before using either for medicinal purposes.

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