Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig)

Extremely popular as a houseplant, Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig) is an evergreen shrub or tree adorned with a dense, rounded canopy and gracefully drooping branches. Glossy, slender-pointed ovate leaves, 5 in. long (12 cm) generously clothe the long branches. Tiny, deep red figs, turning purplish black, appear on outdoor plants, but they rarely appear on indoor plants. Weeping Fig is widely grown in the tropics where it becomes huge and massive. Aerial roots descend from the branches, touch the ground and take root, eventually forming numerous sturdy trunks which can clog a landscape. In warm climates devoid of high humidity, the tree does not develop aerial roots but still grows to a respectable height. Grown indoors, Weeping Fig grows much smaller and makes an attractive houseplant.

Weeping Fig is notoriously finicky about water, light, and transplanting. It can tolerate a range of light levels, but it likes consistency and looks its best when grown in bright, indirect light. It is challenged by dramatic temperature and light-level fluctuations. If the plant is moved, expect it to drop leaves and produce new ones that are accustomed to the new light conditions. Do not overwater. Water only when the top several inches of the soil are dry. Fertilize during the growing season once every two weeks with a half-strength dilution.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 40-50 ft. tall (12-15 m) and 25-30 ft. wide (7-9m).
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils. Site in a location protected from wind and afternoon sun. Grow indoors in a soil-based potting mix in bright indirect light or part shade.
• Virtually disease free. Keep an eye out for glasshouse red spider mites, thrips, mealybugs, and scale insects under glass.
• No routine pruning is necessary. Remove diseased, damaged, congested, or crossing shoots.
• Propagate by seed, leaf-bud or semi-hardwood cuttings.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• Native to S & SE Asia through Malesia to N Australia & SW Pacific.