Ficus benjamina – Classic Weeping Fig for Indoor Spaces

How is Ficus benjamina used in NZ?

Ficus benjamina, commonly known as the Weeping Fig, is a highly popular houseplant that adorns homes and offices across NZ. The Weeping Fig brings both height and a lush appeal to a space whilst also purifying the air. The weeping nature tends to also bring a sense of calm to a space. The green foliage and height is has the advantage of bringing a colour and can be a great colour and textural contrast to a bland wall or corner. It is the gorgeous foliage and form that makes Ficus benjamina so popular in NZ.

How to grow Ficus Benjamina

Growing Ficus benjamina requires an appreciation of its tropical preferences. Growing this Ficus indoors is the most common way to grow it in NZ due to its sensitivity to frost. It is possible to grow this Ficus outdoors in frost-free areas like Northland or coastal regions. In such situations be sure to plant it full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil that is sheltered from both wind and frost. When growing it indoors, choose a warm, brightly lit spot with indirect sunlight. Avoid drafty positions or those where sudden temperature changes can occur. The plants should only be watered when the top 5 cm of soil has dried out but be careful not to overwater the plant. Overwatering is a major cause of leaf drop and can lead to a slow death of the plant. Be sure to use a well-draining potting mix for indoor plants and feed the plants with a liquid fertiliser each month through spring and summer. They do prefer a humid environment, and this can be achieved indoors by sitting the pot on a try filled with pebbles that is filled with water. Temperatures between 18-25°C are perfect for the Weeping Fig, hence why a lounge or bedroom are generally ideal. Try and avoid moving Ficus benjamina around too much as they can start to drop leaves as they react to subtle changes in their environment. Finally, repot your plant every 2-3 years and enjoy this beautiful plant.

Ficus benjamina pruning

Any pruning on Ficus benjamina is more about light trimming than hard pruning per se. The Plant Company recommends a little and often approach to contain the growth and shape the plant. Generally, this is undertaken during spring and autumn. The Plant Company advises that no more than 30% of the foliage is ever removed as this can shock the plant and cause the plant to shut-down or start to drop leaves. NB: Ficus benjamina does produce a milky sap that can irritate the skin. Wearing gloves is the best way to protect yourself.

Why does my Ficus benjamina have white spots?

White spots on a Ficus benjamina are typically from mineral deposits and are a natural phenomenon. Called Lithocysts, they are specialized plant cells that contain mineral deposits, particularly calcium carbonate. They appear as small, raised white spots. They are simply the plants way of getting rid of high levels of calcium within the plant. They are not harmful but can be unsightly. The best way to avoid this issue is to avoid over-fertilising the plant, particularly applications of lime, dolomite, or calcium-based fertilisers.

Where can I get a large Ficus benjamina?

Large Ficus benjamina trees are produced by The Plant Company and we have two very good wholesalers that also have a wonderful offering. As the numbers are limited these are only available by enquiry only. Simply contact us with what you are after and the team will endeavour to find the size of plant you desire. Be sure to also take advantage of free shipping on orders over $150.

Where to buy Ficus benjamina?

The Plant Company has the best Ficus benjamina plants to buy in NZ. Our production nursery specialises in growing amazing plants and our logistics team pack them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive and the quality is exceptional. Let us look after your plant needs and impress you with both our products and service! Be sure to also take advantage of free shipping on orders over $150.

Ficus benjamina tree care

Caring for a Ficus benjamina tree involves understanding its specific needs, as it can be a bit particular. They prefer bright, indirect sunlight and direct sunlight should be avoided. On the other hand, insufficient light can lead to leaf drop. Be sure to water the plants only when the top inch of soil feels dry. It is critical that the growing media used is free-draining and there are plenty of drainage holes in the pot. Overwatering, poor drainage, or both will see plants that fail to perform, develop leaf yellowing and drop leaves. Watering frequency will vary depending on temperature and humidity. Ficus benjamina thrives in warm environments, ideally between 15-24°C. Avoid exposure to drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. Repot when the plant becomes root-bound, typically every 2-3 years. Use indoor plant fertiliser in spring and again in autumn to keep the plants thriving. Only minimal pruning is required and that is generally to maintain the shape and remove dead or damaged branches. Watch for pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects and treat with an appropriate agrichemical. Finally, Ficus benjamina dislikes changes in its environment to the key is to try and maintain consistent conditions.

Ficus benjamina bonsai tree

If you are looking for a Ficus benjamina for bonsai, feel free to contact us. We are constantly propagating and have freshly potted lines which are perfect for bonsai training. Finding appropriately sized plants is always the challenge for bonsai growers.