Ficus benjamina

Ficus benjamina

Ficus benjamina, commonly known as the Weeping Fig, is an elegant indoor tree with slender branches and glossy green or variegated leaves. It makes a beautiful statement plant and can bring height and structure to bright rooms.

Where to position

Choose a bright position with plenty of indirect light. Good light helps the plant maintain healthy growth and is particularly important for variegated varieties.

Avoid strong, direct sunlight, especially through hot windows, as this can scorch the leaves. A spot near an east- or west-facing window can work well.

Ficus benjamina dislikes being moved, so try to choose a suitable position and keep changes to a minimum.

Watering

• Allow the top layer of compost to dry slightly between waterings.
• Check the top few centimetres of compost before watering.
• Water thoroughly when the surface feels dry.
• Allow excess water to drain away completely.
• Avoid letting the plant sit in water.
• Reduce watering during the cooler, darker months.
• Try to keep watering consistent, as sudden changes can encourage leaf drop.

Top watering tip: Water the compost directly rather than regularly soaking the leaves. If the leaves become dusty, gently wipe them with a damp cloth.

Temperature & humidity

Ficus benjamina prefers warm, stable temperatures and moderate humidity.

Keep away from cold draughts, chilly windows, radiators and air conditioning. Sudden changes in temperature or position can cause the plant to drop leaves.

Average household humidity is generally suitable, although the plant may appreciate some extra humidity during particularly dry indoor conditions.

Feeding & repotting

Feed every few weeks during spring and summer with a balanced houseplant feed.

Repot when the roots become crowded, using a good-quality, free-draining houseplant compost. Avoid using a pot that is much larger than the existing root ball, as excess compost can retain too much moisture.

Ficus benjamina can be sensitive to disturbance, so avoid repotting unnecessarily and give it time to settle after moving.

Common problems

Leaf drop
This is one of the most common problems with Ficus benjamina and can be caused by changes in light, temperature, position or watering. Keep conditions as consistent as possible and avoid moving the plant unnecessarily.

Yellow leaves
Often caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Check the compost before watering and make sure excess water can drain away freely.

Brown or crispy leaf edges
Usually caused by dry compost, low humidity, strong direct sunlight or cold draughts.

Drooping leaves
May indicate that the plant is too dry, although overwatering can also cause similar symptoms. Check the compost and the roots if the problem persists.

Leaf spots or damaged foliage
Can occur when foliage stays wet for long periods or when airflow is poor. Avoid regularly misting the leaves and remove badly damaged foliage.

Leaf loss after moving
Ficus benjamina can react to changes in its environment by dropping leaves. This does not necessarily mean the plant is dying. Keep it in a bright, stable position and maintain consistent watering while it adjusts.

Top tips

• Bright, indirect light helps maintain healthy, compact growth.
• Keep it consistent: Avoid frequent changes in position or conditions.
• Water carefully: Allow the top of the compost to dry slightly before watering.
• Avoid waterlogging: Good drainage is essential.
• Keep it warm: Protect from cold draughts and sudden temperature changes.
• Clean the leaves: Gently wipe away dust to keep the foliage looking healthy.
• Be patient: Some leaf drop can occur when the plant is adjusting to a new environment.

Pet & child safety

Ficus benjamina contains a milky sap that can cause irritation if the plant is chewed or eaten. Keep it away from pets and children and discourage chewing on the leaves.