Weeping fig (Benjamin fig)
Ficus benjamina
Evergreen tropical tree often grown indoors for its glossy, teardrop leaves; popular but sensitive to light, drafts and relocation, which can cause leaf drop.
Caution: Toxic to Pets
Toxicity: toxic
Ficus benjamina contains sap and ficin that can cause oral and skin irritation, vomiting or diarrhea in pets and mild dermatitis in humans on contact.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place the weeping fig in bright, indirect light near an east- or north-facing window or several metres from a south- or west-facing window. Avoid hot midday sun which scorches leaves; rotate plant monthly for even growth.
Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2.5-5 cm (1-2 in) of soil feels dry. Allow excess to drain; never leave roots sitting in water. Reduce frequency in cooler months and increase slightly during active spring/summer growth.
Humidity
Prefers medium to high humidity. Increase humidity with regular misting, a tray of pebbles and water, or a nearby humidifier. Avoid placing near dry heat vents which cause leaf crisping.
Temperature
Ideal range 15–29°C (59–84°F). Avoid temperatures below 10–12°C (50–54°F) and sudden drafts or rapid temperature swings which trigger leaf drop.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Sudden leaf drop
Cause: Light changes, drafts, overwatering, or repot shock
Solution: Move to stable light and temperature, check watering routine, avoid drafts and give time to acclimate after relocation
Yellowing leaves
Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage leading to root stress
Solution: Reduce watering, improve drainage, repot into fresh mix if roots are waterlogged, trim damaged roots
Brown leaf tips or edges
Cause: Low humidity, salt build-up from fertilizer, or inconsistent watering
Solution: Flush soil occasionally, increase humidity, trim brown tips and keep watering consistent
Sticky residue or speckled leaves (pests)
Cause: Scale, mealybugs or spider mites
Solution: Isolate plant; wipe leaves with soapy water, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, repeat treatments and inspect regularly
Soft, rotten roots and wilting
Cause: Severe overwatering causing root rot
Solution: Remove plant from pot, cut away rotted roots, repot in fresh well-draining mix and reduce watering frequency
✂️How to Propagate Weeping fig (Benjamin fig)
Stem cuttings: take 10-15 cm semi-ripe cuttings with a node, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone and insert into moist, well-draining mix. Keep warm and humid until roots form (4–8 weeks). Air-layering: wound a healthy branch, apply rooting hormone, wrap with moist sphagnum and plastic, wait 6–12 weeks then sever and pot. Seeds are slow and less common for houseplants.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Moraceae
Native to: Southeast Asia to northern Australia (India, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Australia)
Natural Habitat: Grows in tropical and subtropical lowland and montane forests, often as an understory or emergent tree in humid, well-drained sites with consistent rainfall and filtered light.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
Reduce watering and fertilizer; keep plant away from cold drafts and heating vents. Maintain humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier to prevent leaf drop.
Spring
Resume regular watering and begin light fertilization. Repot rootbound plants and prune to shape as new growth begins.
Summer
Provide bright indirect light and consistent moisture. Increase humidity and inspect for pests more frequently during active growth.
Fall
Gradually reduce fertilizer and slightly cut back on watering as growth slows. Clean leaves and check for pests before winter.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Ficus dropping leaves suddenly?
Sudden leaf drop is usually due to a change in light, drafts, temperature shock, or inconsistent watering; stabilize conditions and reduce stress.
How often should I water my weeping fig?
Water when the top 2.5-5 cm of soil is dry, typically every 7–14 days depending on light, pot size and season.
Can I place my ficus in direct sunlight?
Avoid strong direct midday sun; a few hours of gentle morning or late afternoon sun are fine but bright, filtered light is best.
Is Ficus benjamina toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. The sap is toxic and can cause gastrointestinal upset and oral irritation in pets; keep out of reach.
How do I propagate a weeping fig?
Best methods are stem cuttings with rooting hormone or air-layering; seeds are possible but less common for houseplants.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025