Ficus Benjamina
Ficus benjamina
The classic Weeping Fig is a beloved indoor tree with glossy, oval leaves and gracefully drooping branches that create an elegant canopy effect. Native to Asia and Australia, it's prized for its ability to adapt to indoor conditions while maintaining a tree-like structure that can reach impressive heights. Though it may drop leaves when first brought home, once established it becomes a stunning, long-lived centerpiece that can be pruned and shaped to fit any space.
Harvest
N/Ad
Days to harvest
Sun
Bright
Zones
10–12
USDA hardiness
Height
5-30 feet
Complete Growing Guide
Soil: Loam (Silt), Sand. Soil pH: Acid (<6.0), Alkaline (>8.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0). Drainage: Very Dry. Height: 5 ft. 0 in. - 30 ft. 0 in.. Spread: 3 ft. 0 in. - 30 ft. 0 in.. Spacing: 6-feet-12 feet, 12-24 feet, 24-60 feet. Growth rate: Medium. Propagation: Stem Cutting.
Harvesting
Flowers and fruits are enclosed in a fleshy sac that turns from green to orange-red to red and then purplish black. A globose to slightly oblong fig, in pairs, green maturing to reddish then purple-black.
Color: Black, Green, Orange, Purple/Lavender, Red/Burgundy. Length: < 1 inch. Width: < 1 inch.
History & Origin
Origin: Tropical & Subtropical Asia and Northern Australia
Advantages
- +Disease resistance: Heavy Shade
Companion Plants
Plant Together
Spider Plant
Similar light and watering requirements, helps purify air together
Pothos
Compatible humidity needs and creates layered foliage display
Peace Lily
Increases humidity levels which benefits Ficus, similar indirect light needs
Boston Fern
Adds humidity to air and thrives in similar bright, indirect light conditions
Rubber Plant
Same family (Ficus) with identical care requirements and pest resistance
Philodendron
Similar watering schedule and helps create beneficial microclimate
Snake Plant
Tolerates lower light when Ficus creates shade, different root depths
ZZ Plant
Drought tolerant backup when watering is inconsistent, complementary growth habits
Keep Apart
Fiddle Leaf Fig
Competes for same light conditions and prone to similar fungal issues
Monstera
Large leaves compete for light and space, similar nutrient requirements cause competition
Calathea
Requires much higher humidity and more consistent moisture than Ficus prefers
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Generally healthy but susceptible to leaf spot and root rot
Common Pests
Scale insects, spider mites, aphids, whiteflies
Diseases
Root rot, leaf spot, powdery mildew, canker