Long-leaved Fig
ficus longifolia
Also known as: ["Long-leaved Fig","Ficus longifolia"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen tree or large shrub with elongated leaves and aerial roots.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Ficus |
| Botanical Name: | Ficus longifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room with indirect light, or sheltered outdoor location in mild climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments to maintain humidity
- 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: Light pruning as needed; major pruning in spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light to prevent leaf burn; place near east-facing windows for ideal light; shield from intense summer sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light; tolerates partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; adjust placement seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure proper drainage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; air layering for larger stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Rooting hormone powder or gel recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag, humidity dome, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinching back tips, selective branch removal, shaping cuts.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged foliage; shape for aesthetic appeal; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering active growth.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; use fresh soil to refresh nutrients.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly 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; use cactus mix as a base.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or wilting; buds may fail to open.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid drafty areas; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; use a fan for air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
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 that ingest parts of the Ficus longifolia may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation caused by the plant's sap and leaves.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Ficus longifolia by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds in the leaves and sap.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe Ficus longifolia contains irritant sap that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant's leaves may also cause minor irritation if chewed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ficus longifolia toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Ficus longifolia?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week.
Q: Does Ficus longifolia require direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light; tolera |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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