Weeping Fig
Ficus benjamina
The Weeping Fig is a classic indoor tree cherished for its graceful, arching branches and dense, glossy foliage. Native to Asia and Australia, it brings a sophisticated, arboreal touch to any room. It is particularly known for its sensitivity to environmental changes, often shedding leaves when moved or exposed to drafts, but remains a favorite for its air-purifying qualities and timeless aesthetic.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Pet Warning
The milky sap (latex) is irritating to the skin and toxic to pets (cats and dogs) if ingested, leading to gastrointestinal distress and oral irritation.
Care Guide
Weeping Fig Care Guide
Lighting: Place in a location with consistent, bright indirect light. Avoid direct midday sun which can scorch the leaves.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Do not let the plant sit in standing water.
Stability: Ficus benjamina hates being moved. Once you find a spot where it is happy, leave it there. Sudden changes in light or temperature often cause ‘leaf drop.’
Pruning: Prune in winter to maintain shape or control size. This also encourages bushier growth.
Seasonal Tips: In winter, reduce watering and protect from cold drafts or heating vents. Increase humidity using a pebble tray or occasional misting if the air is very dry.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid 10-10-10 fertilizer
Soil
Well-draining, peat-based potting soil.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
3-10 feet tall indoors
Growth Rate
Moderate
Propagation
Stem cuttings in water or soil, air layering.
Common Varieties
Starlight
The 'Starlight' Weeping Fig features elegant, pointed ovate leaves characterized by a striking high-contrast pattern of deep green centers and broad, irregular creamy-white margins.
Variegata
The 'Variegata' Weeping Fig features glossy, teardrop-shaped leaves characterized by irregular creamy-white margins and vibrant green centers.
Midnight
The ‘Midnight’ Weeping Fig is characterized by its dense, glossy foliage of deep forest green so dark it appears nearly black, featuring slender, pointed leaves with elegantly wavy margins.
Monique
The 'Monique' variety is distinguished by its glossy, deep emerald-green leaves that feature uniquely ruffled, wavy margins and emerge as vibrant lime-green new growth.
Danielle
The 'Danielle' Weeping Fig is distinguished by its dense, glossy, teardrop-shaped leaves that showcase a deep, uniform forest-green color without variegation.
Weeping Fig 'Danielle
The 'Danielle' cultivar is a sophisticated version of the classic Weeping Fig, prized for its dense, glossy, deep emerald-green foliage. Its upright growth habit and arching branches create a lush, tree-like silhouette that makes it a popular choice for focal points in living rooms and offices. Unlike some other Ficus varieties, 'Danielle' is known for its slightly more durable leaves and a richer, darker color profile.