Weeping Fig

Botanical Name: Ficus benjamina

Weeping fig is the most popular indoor tree from the Moraceae family.

Its branches droop downward from woody stems, covering the tree with glossy, pointed leaves which become darker green as the plant ages. Growers sometimes braid its trunks.

These trees are slow-growing, but can grow to 10 ft indoors. Dwarf varieties only reach 3 ft (90 cm) tall. You can prune tall branches to control the plant's height.

This is a plant that doesn't like change. Place it in bright, indirect light and leave it there. It's known to drop its leaves when moved around. Keep it away from drafts. Blasts of hot or cold air from doorways or vents will also cause leaf drop. If this happens, don't worry. With good care it will grow new leaves in spring and summer.

In early fall, expect it to drop quite a few leaves. This is normal. You can help prevent the tree from losing too many leaves by misting it to increase humidity. Also, don't be tempted to overwater a shedding plant, which makes the problem worse.

Weeping fig is a long-lived house plant. Give it what it wants and you'll enjoy it for many, many years.

Origin: Southeast Asia and Northern Australia

Height: Up to 10 ft (3 m)

Light: Bright light

Water: Water thoroughly, then allow to dry out slightly between waterings. This plant will not tolerate soggy soil. Keep soil slightly drier in winter, when light levels are lower.

Humidity: High humidity.

Temperature: Average room temperatures 60-75°F, 16-24°C

Soil: Soilless potting mix or any that drains well.

Fertilizer: Feed once a month spring through fall with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half.

Propagation: Take tip cuttings in spring.