Alii Ficus, Banana Leaf Ficus
ficus maclellandii
Also known as: ["Ficus binnendijkii","Ficus longifolia"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen tree or shrub with long, slender, banana-like leaves and an upright growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Ficus |
| Botanical Name: | Ficus maclellandii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, filtered light or shaded outdoor area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- 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 added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to lower light in winter to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light to avoid scorching; place away from direct sun; adjust placement between indoor and outdoor settings based on intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light, partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for direct light; monitor leaf color for light stress.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with peat or compost
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost occasionally.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates 50–90°F (10–32°C) but thrives in moderate warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, water spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; maintain humidity; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems to encourage branching; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune in active growth; remove dead/damaged leaves; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove old soil gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh well-draining mix; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation, allow excess to drain, and water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water 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 organic matter for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting; stunted growth in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate from drafts; avoid cold water during watering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Ficus maclellandii. The sap can also cause irritation to the mouth, skin, or gastrointestinal tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Ficus maclellandii by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation due to the presence of ficin and other irritants. The sap may also cause oral irritation or mild dermatitis.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicFicus maclellandii contains ficin, a proteolytic enzyme, and other irritants that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The sap may also cause mild dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ficus maclellandii toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Ficus maclellandii?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Ficus maclellandii turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, or sudden changes in light or temperature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright indirect light, partial |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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