OnMySill

Ficus Benjamina

description

Plant

Ficus Benjamina, also known as the Weeping Fig, is one of the most elegant indoor trees you can grow at home. Native to Southeast Asia and Australia, it features gracefully arching branches draped with glossy, pointed leaves. It has a reputation for being slightly temperamental — especially when moved — but once it finds its spot and settles in, it rewards you with lush, dramatic greenery for years.

benefits

  • Long-lived
  • Air-purifying
  • Fast-growing

warnings

  • Toxic to pets
  • Sensitive to cold drafts – avoid windowsills in winter

How to care Ficus Benjamina

watering

The golden rule for Ficus Benjamina: never let it sit in water, and never let it dry out completely. It prefers consistent, moderate moisture.

March – August

Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. During warm months the plant is actively growing and needs more consistent moisture.

September – February

Reduce watering noticeably. Wait until the top 2–3 inches of soil are dry before watering again. Cold and wet roots is the most common cause of death in winter.

Always use room-temperature, soft water. Cold tap water can shock the roots and trigger leaf drop.
Very sensitive to overwatering. Yellow leaves dropping = too much water. Brown crispy edges = too little.

humidity

Ficus Benjamina originates from tropical rainforests and appreciates higher humidity levels. Dry indoor air — especially in winter with heating on — is one of its biggest enemies.

March – August

50-70%

Aim for at least 50%. The plant will grow actively and look its best at this range.

September – February

> 40%

Heating systems dry out indoor air significantly. Below 40% you will notice leaf tips browning and increased leaf drop.

temperature

Ficus Benjamina is a tropical plant and hates cold. It is particularly vulnerable to cold drafts from windows, air vents, and doors.

Keep away from cold windows, A/C vents, and exterior doors. Even a brief exposure to cold drafts can trigger massive leaf drop overnight.
Sudden temperature changes > 15°F are dangerous. The plant can shed most of its leaves within days

nutrition

Ficus Benjamina is a moderate feeder during the growing season. Over-fertilizing can burn roots and cause salt build-up in the soil.