Banyan Tree
ficus benghalensis
Also known as: ["Indian Banyan","Banyan Fig"]
Overview
A large, evergreen tree known for its aerial roots that form additional trunks, native to the Indian subcontinent.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Ficus |
| Botanical Name: | Ficus benghalensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright room or sheltered outdoor space
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, less often in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun and afternoon shade outdoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place indoors near a bright window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light with some direct morning sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that doesn’t compact easily; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with aerial roots or via layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem, make a clean cut, apply rooting hormone, place in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or coco coir.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to encourage root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, and well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use stems with aerial roots for faster success; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and removing crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or overgrown branches, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, and gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, make clean cuts, remove debris, and monitor for regrowth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and accommodate growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly, and adjust care post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the root zone directly, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the roots, allow excess water to drain, and water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky components.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, and avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and dehydration in excessive heat without humidity.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity with misting, and ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, water before feeding, stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Ficus benghalensis, particularly the latex or leaves, due to the irritant compounds present.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Ficus benghalensis can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in dogs due to the presence of irritant compounds in the latex and leaves.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe milky latex of Ficus benghalensis contains irritant compounds that can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset if ingested. Contact with the skin may lead to irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Banyan Tree suitable for small gardens?
A: No, due to its large size and spreading habit, it is best suited for spacious landscapes.
Q: Does the Banyan Tree produce edible fruit?
A: Yes, its figs are edible but often sour and not commonly consumed.
Q: How fast does the Banyan Tree grow?
A: It grows at a moderate pace, but its aerial roots can spread extensively over time.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light with so |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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