weeping fig

Also known as: Benjamin tree; Java fig; Java tree; small-leaved rubber plant; tropic laurel; waringin

An evergreen shrub or tree to 3m or more, with pendulous branches bearing glossy, slender-pointed ovate leaves to 12cm in length. Flowers insignificant, followed by reddish-orange fruits 1cm in length, becoming black

Scientific classification

Species: weeping fig (Ficus benjamina)
Genus: Ficus
Family: Moraceae

Skin allergen, harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling]
Toxicity: Houseplants · Conservatory Greenhouse
Plant type: 2.5-4 metres
Height: 1.5-2.5 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Bushy
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
Season of interest: Full sun
Sunlight: 18 – 27 °C
Ideal temperature

weeping fig pictures

Distribution of weeping fig

Distribution map

S and Southeastern Asia through Malesia to Northern Australia and Southwestern Pacific

Information to be completed

Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Skin allergen, harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling]

Quick identification of weeping fig

Information to be completed

weeping fig care guide

Moderate regular watering, allowing brief slight drying between soakings
Watering: Full sun
Sunlight: 18 – 27 °C
Ideal temperature

Watering

Moderate regular watering, allowing brief slight drying between soakings

Fertilizing

Balanced perennial feed every four weeks from spring through summer

Pruning

Little pruning is needed. Remove diseased, damaged, crowded or crossing shoots and unwanted growth. Timing depends on the plant: generally late winter or early spring; plants prone to bleeding and deciduous magnolias need different timing, and deciduous azaleas and lilacs are pruned after flowering.

Propagation

Propagate by seed, leaf-bud or semi-hardwood cuttings

Growing

Grow outdoors in humus-rich moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade with protection from wind in a frost-free area. Grow under glass in loam-based compost in full or filtered light

More growing and care information →