About
An evergreen ornamental tree used as a houseplant, with a weeping habit and glossy, green and yellow variegated foliage.
About the genus
Ficus can be evergreen or deciduous trees, shrubs or climbers, with often leathery, simple, entire or lobed leaves and tiny flowers borne within a hollow receptacle which enlarges to form the fruit
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Shrubs, Houseplants, Trees
HabitPendulous weeping
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
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
CultivationUnder glass grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added fine bark chippings in full or filtered light. When in growth water moderately and apply a nitrogen rich fertiliser monthly. Keep just moist in winter. Plants benefit from regular misting and from being stood on a pebble tray, particularly in a warm dry atmosphere. Their main requirement is an even temperature, in winter not below 13°C, avoid draughty situations. See ornamental fig cultivation for more advice
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed at 15 - 21 °C in spring or by semi-hardwood or leaf-bud cuttings in spring or summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and scale insects
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus