Benjamin Tree Ficus benjamina

The weeping fig is a member of the Moraceae (fig) family. A broadleaf evergreen, it is native to southeastern Asia and Australia, with its range extending into the southwestern Pacific. The tree may reach a height of 40 to 50 feet and a spread of 25 to 30 feet. As a houseplant, however, it is usually kept in the range of 2 to 10 feet tall.

This ficus performs best in bright indirect sunny locations but will also survive in shade. It is very sensitive to light, so if the plant is moved, it may drop leaves and produce new ones that are accustomed to the new light conditions. It grows well in a soil-based potting mix. Water just often enough to keep the soil from completely drying out. It is intolerant to cold and should be kept away from drafts. Light pruning for shape and size is best done in late autumn or winter. It may benefit from light fertilization after new shoots form and at the end of summer

The weeping fig is a very popular houseplant because of its attractive appearance, low maintenance, and tolerance of poor growing conditions, and its stems may be intertwined for an interesting effect. Indoors it is usually grown in large containers, thus dwarf forms may be better suited in this setting. Miniature cultivars like ‘Too Little' are popular for bonsai.

Outdoors this tree may be grown as a specimen plant or a focal point in a tropical garden.  It tolerates shearing so is often seen pruned into a hedge or a rounded shrub, though this heavy pruning decreases the longevity of the plant.  

Quick ID Hints:

• Leaf is elliptic with long, acuminate tip
• Interior tree has drooping branches
• Stems are flexuous and are often braided/trained

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Watch for scale, aphids, mealybugs, thrips, and spider mites. Some dieback and leaf spots may occur.  Very frost sensitive.

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Edibles, Bulbs, and Houseplants" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.