Ficus benjamina, the weeping fig, is a graceful evergreen tree with slender arching branches and small, glossy, pointed leaves that lend a soft, elegant look indoors. A long-standing favourite for homes, offices, and malls, it forms a dense canopy and can be braided or shaped. It prefers bright indirect light and a settled position, as it tends to shed leaves when moved or stressed. Tolerant of typical Indian indoor warmth, it rebounds quickly once stable. Variegated cultivars add cream margins. With consistent light, watering, and warmth, it stays full, bushy, and attractive year-round.
Specifications
| Family |
Moraceae |
| Native region |
South and Southeast Asia, Australia |
| Mature height |
1.5-3 m indoors |
| Mature spread |
0.6-1.5 m |
| Growth rate |
Moderate to fast |
| Foliage |
Evergreen, small glossy pointed leaves |
| Flower colour |
Insignificant |
| Flower season |
ā |
| Climate zone |
Tropical to subtropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Bright indirect light; some morning sun. |
| Watering |
Water when top 2-3 cm dries; avoid waterlogging. |
| Soil / mix |
Well-draining potting mix. |
| Temperature |
16-30 C; avoid cold drafts below 12 C. |
| Humidity |
Moderate; mist in dry seasons. |
| Fertilizer |
Balanced liquid feed monthly in growing season. |
| Pruning |
Prune to shape and control size; tolerates trimming. |
| Repotting |
Every 1-2 years in spring. |
| Propagation |
Stem cuttings or air layering. |
| Pests & problems |
Scale, mealybugs, spider mites. |
| Toxicity / safety |
Toxic to pets; sap irritates skin. |
| Difficulty |
Easy to moderate |
Uses
A classic indoor ornamental for homes, offices, and malls, often braided or shaped. Adds soft greenery and works well as a screening or accent plant.
Growing tips
Choose a permanent bright spot and avoid moving it, as it drops leaves when stressed. In Indian winters keep it away from cold drafts and reduce watering; mist during dry months to limit leaf drop.