Weeping Fig
ficus benjamina
Also known as: ["Benjamin Fig","Java Fig"]
Overview
A popular indoor tree with glossy, elliptical leaves and a graceful, weeping growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","air purifying"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Ficus |
| Botanical Name: | Ficus benjamina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room with indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–32°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and sand; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, but generally every 2–3 months or after significant growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning unless required.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from direct sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor environment.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid drafty windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in low light or winter.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); prefers stable temperatures, avoiding drafts.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable room temperature; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing newly repotted plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; air layering for larger plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, remove lower leaves, apply hormone, place in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–80°F (21–27°C) for optimal rooting.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, plastic bag or dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity to prevent wilting; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinching back tips, selective branch removal, cutting just above a leaf node or branch junction.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged leaves, shape for aesthetics, encourage bushier growth; focus on maintaining plant health and form.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilized knife.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, avoid fertilizing for a month.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if necessary, use fresh soil, water lightly 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 deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture but not waterlogging; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; use orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, yellowing, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move plant away from drafty areas; use a space heater if needed; cover roots with mulch for insulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; provide shade during peak heat; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, use diluted fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid overfertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, ingestion of Ficus benjamina by cats can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation due to the presence of ficin and other irritants in the sap. Cats may be more sensitive to plant toxins than dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe sap of Ficus benjamina contains ficin, a proteolytic enzyme, and other irritants that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. While not life-threatening, ingestion can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe milky sap of Ficus benjamina contains irritant compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant is not considered highly toxic to humans but can cause discomfort if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ficus benjamina toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Why are the leaves of my Ficus benjamina dropping?
A: Leaf drop can be caused by sudden changes in light, temperature, or watering.
Q: How often should I water my Ficus benjamina?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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