About
Ficus benjamina 'Variegata', the variegated weeping fig, is a popular cultivar of the weeping fig with glossy, slender-pointed, green leaves irregularly margined with white, carried on gracefully weeping branches. A handsome and widely grown indoor tree, valued for its ornamental variegated foliage.
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 shade, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants, Conservatory Greenhouse, Trees
HabitBushy, Pendulous weeping
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesPatio 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 keep just moist in winter. Maintain an even temperature with a minimum of 13⁰C. See ornamental fig cultivation for more advice
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood or leaf-bud cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and scale insects
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus