Ficus benjamina WEEPING FIG (plant)

Ficus benjamina, also known as weeping fig or indoor ficus, is a decorative green plant from the Moraceae family. This tree is native to India and, more generally, Asia and Oceania.

The foliage is its primary asset. It consists of small, evergreen leaves measuring 5 to 12 cm, which are oval and glossy, ending in a characteristic tapered tip called a "drip tip." These deep emerald green leaves are carried by flexible, drooping branches.

The flowering of Ficus benjamina is almost invisible to the untrained eye. As with all fig trees, the flowers are hidden inside a fleshy, closed inflorescence called a syconium. There are no visible petals or classic floral bouquets.

The fruits are small figs measuring 1 to 1.5 cm in diameter. Initially green, they turn orange, then red or blackish-purple when mature. Indoors, it is very rare for the plant to produce fruit due to the lack of natural pollinators.

Weeping fig seeds are brown and extremely small, measuring only one millimeter in diameter.

- Interests:

Some varieties are also called the weeping fig or simply "ficus." With its dense, decorative foliage and graceful habit, it is highly valued for its tropical appearance. it brings a refined and natural touch to any living space. It is the "star plant" of our interiors and fits all styles (contemporary, industrial, vintage, etc.). As an ornamental plant, it adapts well to indoor growth in containers or pots. Thanks to its vigorous growth, it is also suitable for bonsai cultivation, appealing to both beginners and enthusiasts.

Beyond its decorative interests, it is one of the most effective plants for purifying indoor air. If well-maintained and stabilized, it can live for a long time. Furthermore, it is a symbol of longevity in Asian culture.

- Cultivation and Planting:

• Use a 5-liter pot with horticultural potting soil.
• Plant the root system of weeping fig just above the collar.
• Firm the soil manually all around the root ball.
• Remember to drain the bottom of the pot well before planting.
• Place a saucer underneath to catch excess water.
• Water the culture gently.
• Find it a very bright spot within the home.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

Ficus benjamina enjoys fertile, light, and, above all, well-drained soil. A mixture composed of 80% quality horticultural potting soil for green plants and 20% sand or perlite is ideal for promoting root aeration.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

This plant needs bright light, but without prolonged direct sunlight, which could burn its leaves, especially behind glass. It tolerates partial shade, but its growth will be slower. Warning: Ficus hates being moved; a sudden change in exposure or a draft often causes a dramatic drop of its leaves.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

Native to tropical regions, it thrives between 20°C and 26°C. Its hardiness is very low: it does not tolerate frost and begins to suffer as soon as temperatures drop below 10°C. In winter, it must be kept indoors.

- Watering / Water Needs:

Watering should be moderate and regular. Wait for the substrate to dry out by a few centimeters on the surface before watering again. In summer, watering every 7 to 10 days is sufficient, while in winter, the frequency should be reduced to every 15 days. It also enjoys regular misting of its foliage with non-calcareous water to simulate tropical humidity.

- Multiplication:

The most common and effective method is stem cuttings. Simply take a branch tip of about 10-15 cm and place it either in a glass of water or directly into a light mixture of potting soil and sand. Air layering is also possible for sturdier specimens. Sowing seeds is possible between June and July.

- Pests / Diseases:

Ficus is mainly prone to scale insects (mealybugs or armored scales) and red spider mites, especially if the ambient air is too dry. Regarding diseases, excess water causes root rot or the appearance of fungi. A massive drop of leaves is rarely a disease but rather a sign of environmental stress.