Ficus benjamina is a species of fig that is native to Asia and Australia. The tree can grow up to 30 m in height and has dark green, glossy leaves. The tree produces small, white flowers that turn into edible fruits. The tree is cultivated for its fruit and as an ornamental plant.
Related plant:
Ficus Variegata
Related plant:
Ficus Microcarpa
About soil condition, ficus benjamina prefers well-drained, sandy soils with a high organic matter content. The roots are sensitive to waterlogging, so the plant requires a well-aerated rooting medium. If the soil is too heavy, it can be lightened with the addition of perlite or sand. Ficus benjamina is not particular about soil pH, but it does best in slightly acidic to slightly alkaline conditions.
Not too different with other houseplants, the ficus benjamina needs bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. If you don't have a spot in your home that gets enough natural light, you can supplement with grow lights. Give your ficus about 12 hours of light per day for best results.
The temperature condition that is best for a Ficus benjamina is one that is warm, but not too hot. They do best in temperatures that are between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature gets too hot, the leaves of the plant will begin to turn yellow and drop off.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50%-70%. However, it can tolerate a lower humidity level as long as the air is not too dry. The leaves of this plant will start to turn brown and drop off if the humidity level drops below 50%. If the humidity level is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and drop off.
Regarding fertilizer, this kind of plant does not need much. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is all that is necessary. As for the roots, they are relatively shallow so be careful not to plant it too deeply.
Pruning your Ficus benjamina is important to maintain its health and appearance. You should prune your plant every few months, or as needed. When pruning, focus on removing dead or dying leaves and stems. You can also prune to shape your plant or to control its size. Just be careful not to over-prune, as this can damage your plant.
Propagation is usually done by taking stem cuttings in spring or summer. The stem cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and taken from a healthy, actively growing plant. Cuttings should be taken from the tips of the stems, as these will have the most active growth. Cuttings can be placed in water or a moist potting mix until they develop roots. Once roots have developed, the plants can be transplanted into individual pots.
Usually, the plant growth rate during the spring and summer months when the days are long and there is plenty of sunlight. However, the plant can still grow during the fall and winter months, albeit at a slower rate. When it comes to watering, the ficus benjamina prefers to be kept on the drier side and only needs to be watered every week or so. Too much water can lead to root rot, so be sure not to overwater.
Common problems for this kind of plant are chewed leaves, yellow leaves, and leaf drop. If your plant has chewed leaves, it is most likely being eaten by caterpillars. To control them, you can either pick them off by hand or use an insecticide. If your plant has yellow leaves, it is probably due to too much sun or too little water. If the leaves are dropping, it is most likely due to too much water or too little light.
Source:
| Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants | University of Florida, IFAS
Ficus benjamina (Moraceae) - HEAR species info - University of
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