About
Ficus benjamina, the weeping fig, is an elegant evergreen tree or large shrub to 3 m or more with gracefully pendulous branches bearing polished, slender-pointed, broadly oval leaves to 12 cm long. The arching, weeping habit makes it one of the most popular and widely grown indoor trees, though it can be sensitive to changes in light and position.
About the genus
Ficus, the figs, are a large, diverse genus of evergreen or deciduous trees, shrubs and climbers producing leathery leaves and tiny flowers inside a hollow receptacle that develops into the characteristic fig fruit. They include important food crops, dramatic ornamental specimens and popular houseplants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toS & SE Asia through Malesia to N Australia & SW Pacific
ToxicityHumans/Pets (dogs): Skin allergen, harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow outdoors in humus-rich moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade with protection from wind in a frost-free area. Grow under glass in peat-free, loam-based compost in full or filtered light. See ornamental fig cultivation for more advice
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed, leaf-bud or semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, thrips, mealybugs and scale insects under glass
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus