Ficus variegata is a species of fig tree in the family Moraceae. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. The leaves of the ficus variegata are variable in shape and size, and the tree can reach a height of up to 20 m. The fruit of the ficus variegata is a drupe, and the tree is often grown as an ornamental plant.
Related plant:
Ficus Maclellandii
About soil condition, the ficus variegata prefers well drained soils with a lot of organic matter. It's quite adaptable though and can tolerate different soil types as long as they are not waterlogged. It's also important to make sure the soil is not too dry, as this can cause the leaves to brown and drop off.
Not too different with other houseplants, the ficus variegata needs a good amount of sunlight to maintain its health. It should be placed in a spot where it can receive direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. If you don't have a spot in your home that gets that much sunlight, you can supplement with a grow light.
The temperature condition that is best for a Ficus variegata is warm weather. They like it when the temperature is above freezing and below 100 degrees Fahrenheit. They also like it when the humidity is high.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 40%. They prefer a cool, moist environment and will suffer in dry conditions. If the room is too dry, the leaves will begin to drop. too much humidity will encourage fungal growth.
Mentioning fertilizer, this plant is not a big fan of too much fertilizer.Fertilize every other month using a general purpose fertilizer. too much fertilizer will result in leaf drop.This plant likes to stay on the drier side, so allow the soil to dry out in between watering. The best way to tell if your ficus variegata needs water is to check the leaves.When the leaves start to look wilted, that means it is time to water.Over-watering is the main reason why leaves drop off this plant.The variegata likes to be root bound, so be careful not to plant it too deeply. The roots of this plant are very sensitive to temperature changes.
Pruning your ficus variegata helps to keep it looking its best. It also helps to encourage new growth. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or dying leaves or branches. You can also trim back any overgrown branches.
Propagation is best accomplished by taking stem cuttings in late spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from new growth, and each cutting should include several leaves. The cuttings can be rooted in moist sand, vermiculite, or perlite.
Usually, the plant growth rate studies have been conducted on seedlings or cuttings. In one study, average daily growth rates of seedlings ranged from 0.011 to 0.176 inches (0.28 to 4.47 mm), with a mean of 0.065 inches (1.65 mm) (Schnell, 1974). cuttings had a mean daily growth rate of 0.049 inches (1.24 mm) (Schnell, 1974). Ficus variegata generally has a fast growth rate. However, growth rate varies depending on the type of ficus variegata, the soil it is grown in, and other environmental factors.
Common problems for this kind of plant are yellow leaves, wilting, and root rot. Each of these problems can be caused by different things, so it is important to identify the problem before trying to solve it. Yellow leaves can be caused by too much sun, too little water, or a nutrient deficiency. If the leaves are yellow and droopy, it is probably because the plant is not getting enough water. If the leaves are yellow and stiff, it is likely due to too much sun. A nutrient deficiency can also cause yellow leaves, but is less common. Wilting can also be caused by too much sun, too little water, or a nutrient deficiency. If the plant is wilting and the leaves are droopy, it is probably because the plant is not getting enough water. If the plant is wilting and the leaves are stiff, it is likely due to too much sun. A nutrient deficiency can also cause wilting, but is less common. Root rot is caused by too much water. If the plant is getting too much water, the roots will start to rot and the plant will not be able to absorb nutrients. This can cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually die.
Source:
Discover Nature at JCU - Ficus variegata - JCU Australia
Ficus variegata - 28 images at PhytoImages.siu.edu image,
Phenology of Ficus variegata in a seasonal wet tropical forest at