Weeping Fig
Ficus benjamina · Benjamin FigUSDA | Grow Zone
10-12Outdoors all year in zones 10 to 12. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 50°F.
- Light
- Bright, indirect
- Water
- When top inch is dry
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- Up to 10 ft tall
- Pets
- Toxic to cats and dogs
Ficus benjamina, commonly known as the Weeping Fig, is a popular houseplant known for its elegant, arching branches and glossy leaves. Native to Southeast Asia, this plant adds a touch of greenery to any indoor space, making it a favorite among plant enthusiasts.
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Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 50°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- Up to 10 ft tall
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Tender: no frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Ficus benjamina prefers to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Typically, this means watering every 1-2 weeks, allowing excess water to drain out. In the winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant's growth slows. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause leaf drop and crispy leaf edges.
Light
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Ideally, it should receive around 6-8 hours of light daily. Avoid placing it in low-light conditions, as this can lead to leggy growth and leaf drop.
Soil
Ficus benjamina prefers a well-draining potting mix, ideally with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
A mix of peat, pine bark, and perlite works well to ensure good drainage while retaining some moisture.
Humidity
This plant enjoys humidity levels of 40-60%.
To increase humidity, consider misting the leaves or placing a humidifier nearby. Signs of low humidity include browning leaf tips and increased leaf drop.
Temperature
Ficus benjamina thrives in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and is sensitive to cold drafts.
It is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-12. Protect it from temperatures below 50°F (10°C) as it can suffer damage.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 during the growing season (spring and summer), every 4-6 weeks.
In fall and winter, reduce fertilization to once every 2-3 months. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
Pruning
Prune Ficus benjamina in spring to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove any dead or leggy branches. Deadheading is not necessary, but removing yellow or brown leaves can improve overall health.
Repotting
Repot Ficus benjamina every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes or water pooling on the surface. When repotting, gently loosen the roots and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through stem cuttings.
Take a cutting of about 4-6 inches, ensuring it has at least one leaf node. Place the cutting in water or moist potting mix, keeping it warm and humid. Roots should develop in 4-6 weeks, and the best time to propagate is in spring or early summer.
When it's unhappy
Leaf drop
Why it happens
Sudden changes in environment, such as temperature fluctuations or low humidity.
How to fix it
Maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels, and avoid moving the plant frequently.
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Check soil moisture levels and adjust watering schedule. Fertilize if necessary.
Brown leaf tips
Why it happens
Low humidity or underwatering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity around the plant and ensure consistent watering.
Pests (e.g., spider mites, aphids)
Why it happens
Dry conditions and stress can attract pests.
How to fix it
Regularly inspect the plant, and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Leggy growth
Why it happens
Insufficient light.
How to fix it
Move the plant to a brighter location to encourage fuller growth.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, increase watering as the plant begins to actively grow. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer to support new growth.
Summer
During summer, ensure the plant receives adequate light and humidity. Monitor for pests, as they can thrive in warm conditions.
Fall
In fall, gradually reduce watering as growth slows. Continue to fertilize until late fall, then cut back during winter.
Winter
In winter, keep the plant in a warm location away from drafts. Water less frequently, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings.
Toxicity & Safety
Ficus benjamina is toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs, as well as children. The sap can cause skin irritation, and ingestion of the leaves may lead to gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea.
Good to know
Why are my Ficus benjamina leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on Ficus benjamina can indicate over-watering or a nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
How often should I water my Weeping Fig?
Water your Weeping Fig when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 weeks. Reduce watering in the winter months when growth slows.
What light conditions are best for Ficus benjamina?
Ficus benjamina thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Aim for 6-8 hours of light daily for optimal growth.
How do I propagate my Ficus benjamina?
You can propagate Ficus benjamina through stem cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting, place it in water or moist soil, and keep it warm and humid until roots develop.
What should I do if my Weeping Fig is dropping leaves?
Leaf drop can be caused by sudden environmental changes. Ensure consistent temperature and humidity, and avoid moving the plant frequently.
Is Ficus benjamina toxic to pets?
Yes, Ficus benjamina is toxic to pets and children. The sap can cause skin irritation, and ingestion may lead to gastrointestinal upset.
When is the best time to prune my Ficus benjamina?
The best time to prune Ficus benjamina is in the spring. This encourages bushier growth and helps maintain its shape.
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