Ficus - General

incl. benjamina, moclame, starlight, audrey


Light: All Ficus varieties like bright light, though too much hot/direct sun rays may cause the leaves to burn. Often East or West are perfect. Some of the variegated varieties can take moderate to medium indirect light. Ficus benghalensis will require higher volumes of sunlight than other Ficus (South or West).


Water: Ficus like to be watered evenly and thoroughly, meaning you will want to water the soil until you see some water drain from the drainage hole. Give your plant some time to dry down, but check weekly. When feeling for moisture, check for moisture by pressing your finger into the soil a few inches below the surface. If it is damp, do not water. Ficus plants do not like sitting in soggy soil, so make sure the soil mix and container combination you are using drains very well.


Environment: Ficus trees cannot tolerate low temperatures or cold drafts. They like to be kept at temperatures above 60-70 degrees. It's also important to maintain relatively high humidity around the plant. Regular misting, a nearby humidifier, or setting the Ficus on a pebble tray filled with water will help provide a humid environment. Avoid placing near heat sources or drafty areas. Redirect vents if present. 


Toxicity:  This plant is reported to be toxic to Cats and Dogs


Of Note:

Ficus are sensitive to changes in their environment. They react to these changes by dropping leaves - the leaves. If you have just moved your Ficus to a new location, expect leaf drop. New growth will fill out from the top when the plant adjusts. If it has not been moved, it may be reacting to a change in lighting conditions as the seasons change, or an increase or decrease in its watering frequency. Try to keep its environment as stable as possible to prevent shock and leaf drop.
*When planting in a pot without a drainage hole, avoid over watering by estimating 25% of the container’s overall volume, with appropriate drainage materials incorporated when planting.