Ficus benjamina · Weeping Fig

The plant shows the characteristic weeping/drooping branch habit with small, glossy, ovate-elliptic leaves with pointed tips (acuminate apex) arranged alternately on slender, slightly zigzagging twigs. The overall tree form with a woody trunk splitting into multiple thin branches that arch downward, combined with the pot size suggesting it's grown as an indoor/greenhouse specimen tree, is classic for Ficus benjamina, one of the most common conservatory and houseplant trees. Similar species to rule out include Ficus microcarpa (Chinese banyan/laurel fig), which has similar leaves but a more upright, less pendulous habit and thicker leaves, and Ficus alii, which has narrower, more lance-shaped leaves. A closer photo of the leaf base and any latex/sap exuded when a leaf is broken, plus a view of the bark texture, would help confirm the exact species versus these look-alikes.

Generated 2026-08-27 20:22 by anthropic (claude-sonnet-5).

Light

Bright indirect light; some direct morning sun is fine, but protect from harsh midday sun and keep away from deep shade.

Water

Water when the top inch or two of soil is dry, roughly weekly in the growing season; let it dry out a bit more between waterings in winter. Avoid soggy soil.

Nutrients

Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during spring and summer; suspend feeding in fall and winter.

Repotting

Repot every 2 years or when rootbound, ideally in spring; this species tolerates being slightly potbound and can also be root-pruned to keep size manageable.

Soil media

Well-draining standard potting mix, e.g. peat/bark-based mix with added perlite for aeration.

Temp & humidity

65-80F; moderate humidity is fine (40%+), though it appreciates higher humidity and benefits from occasional misting in dry rooms.

Temperature range

🌡️ 65-80F

Humidity range

💦 40-60%

Care group

🏷️ Medium Light & Moderate Humidity

Toxicity

Sap can cause mild skin irritation and is mildly toxic if ingested by pets or people; also a common allergen trigger (latex-sensitive individuals should use caution). Keep fallen leaves swept up away from pets.

Pests & diseases

Very prone to leaf drop from environmental changes (drafts, light shifts, relocation); watch for scale, mealybugs, and spider mites, especially in dry indoor air.

Propagation

Stem cuttings 4-6 inches long root readily in water or moist soil; take cuttings with a few leaves and a node, and consider rooting hormone for reliability.

Generated 2026-08-27 20:23 by anthropic (claude-sonnet-5).