Ficus microcarpa 'Variegata' · Variegated Chinese banyan (bonsai fig)

The specimen shows a thick, pale gray-tan trunk trained in classic bonsai form with many thin, wiry, slightly weeping branches bearing small, ovate, glossy leaves with irregular cream-to-yellow variegation and green centers/margins. This overall habit—stocky basal trunk, fine ramification, and small leathery variegated leaves—is very typical of Ficus microcarpa (also sold as Ficus retusa or 'Ginseng Ficus') used extensively in bonsai culture, rather than the more pendulous, fine-textured growth of Ficus benjamina, which was already ruled out. The leaf shape here appears slightly more rounded/ovate and the branching less strictly pendulous than typical F. benjamina, supporting F. microcarpa as the better match, though the two variegated fig cultivars can look quite similar in photos. Other possibilities to rule out include Ficus retusa (often used interchangeably with microcarpa) and variegated Coprosma repens, though Coprosma typically lacks the thickened bonsai-style trunk and milky latex sap common to Ficus. A close-up of a cut leaf or stem (to check for milky sap characteristic of Ficus) or a clearer view of leaf venation and margin would help confirm the exact species/cultivar with more certainty.

Generated 2026-08-24 23:04 by anthropic (claude-sonnet-5).

Light

Bright indirect light with some direct morning sun; variegation fades in too much shade, but avoid harsh midday direct sun which can scorch leaves.

Water

Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry, roughly every 7-10 days; reduce frequency in winter. Dislikes soggy roots but also dislikes being bone dry for long.

Nutrients

Balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during spring through summer; skip or reduce in fall/winter.

Repotting

Repot every 2 years in spring, or when roots fill the pot; tolerates root pruning well as it's often trained as a bonsai.

Soil media

Well-draining standard potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand for aeration.

Temp & humidity

65-85F; moderate humidity is fine (40-60%), tolerant of average indoor/conservatory air but appreciates occasional misting.

Temperature range

🌡️ 65-85F

Humidity range

💦 40-60%

Care group

🏷️ Medium Light & Moderate Humidity

Toxicity

Mildly toxic sap can irritate skin and eyes, and cause mild GI upset if ingested by pets or people; also a known allergen source (latex-sensitive individuals should avoid contact). Wear gloves when pruning.

Pests & diseases

Prone to scale, mealybugs, and spider mites, especially in dry indoor conditions; also known for leaf drop when moved or stressed by sudden environmental changes. Root rot if overwatered.

Propagation

Stem cuttings root readily in water or moist soil; take a semi-hardwood cutting below a node and keep humidity elevated until roots form.

Generated 2026-08-24 23:05 by anthropic (claude-sonnet-5).