How to Grow and Care for Ficus Umbellata

The Ficus umbellata, known more casually as the Umbrella Tree Fig, is an increasingly popular houseplant recognized for its impressive foliage. Native to the rainforests of western Africa, this plant has gained admiration for its distinct appearance. It features very large, heart-shaped leaves that are noticeably thin and delicate, held aloft on slender, elegant stems.

This species is a relative of the ubiquitous Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) but is often considered a more manageable cousin for indoor cultivation. Its large, waxy green leaves create a striking tropical aesthetic, making it a sophisticated focal point in any room.

Ficus Umbellata Care Essentials

Light

This plant thrives in plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. An ideal placement is near an east-facing window where it can receive gentle morning sun, or a few feet back from a south or west-facing window. Rotating the plant weekly helps ensure all sides receive equal light, promoting even, upright growth.

Insufficient light will cause the plant to become “leggy,” stretching toward the nearest light source with smaller leaves. Conversely, exposing it to harsh, direct afternoon sun will scorch the delicate leaves, leaving behind brown burn marks.

Water

This ficus prefers consistently moist soil but is highly sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot. The best practice is to allow the top two inches of the soil to dry out before watering again. When it is time to water, do so thoroughly until water flows from the pot’s drainage holes, and discard any excess water from the saucer.

During the active growing season of spring and summer, you will water more frequently than in the winter when the plant’s growth slows. It is better to err on the side of underwatering than to let the plant sit in soggy soil.

Soil

A well-draining potting medium is necessary for the health of Ficus umbellata, as it prevents root decay. The soil needs to retain some moisture without becoming waterlogged. An excellent mixture can be created by combining equal parts of standard indoor potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark for proper aeration and drainage.

Alternatively, a pre-packaged cactus or succulent mix can serve as a good base, improved by adding a handful of pine bark or charcoal.

Temperature and Humidity

As a plant native to tropical Africa, the Umbrella Tree Fig appreciates warm and humid conditions, thriving in temperatures between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Consistency is important, so place the plant away from areas with temperature fluctuations like heating vents, air conditioners, or drafty windows.

This ficus prefers humidity levels above 50%. In drier home environments, you may need to boost the ambient moisture by grouping it with other plants, placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, or using a room humidifier.

Fertilizer

Ficus umbellata benefits from regular feeding during its active growing season. Fertilize the plant once a month throughout the spring and summer using a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half-strength to prevent root burn.

No fertilizer is needed during the fall and winter. During this dormant period, applying fertilizer can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil, which can damage the root system.

Pruning and Repotting

Pruning

Pruning is not strictly necessary but can be done to control the plant’s size, shape its growth, or encourage a fuller appearance. Trimming can stimulate branching, which is useful if the plant has become tall and leggy. The best time to prune is during the spring or summer.

When pruning, use sharp, sterilized shears to make clean cuts just above a leaf node, as this is where new growth will emerge. Be aware that this plant exudes a milky white latex from cuts, which can be a skin irritant, so wearing gloves is advisable.

Repotting

Repotting is necessary every two to three years, or when the plant shows signs of being root-bound, like roots growing from drainage holes or slowed growth. It is best to repot during the spring or summer.

Choose a new container one to two inches larger in diameter to prevent the soil from staying too wet, which causes root rot. When repotting, gently place the plant in fresh, well-draining soil and prune away any black or mushy roots.

Propagating Ficus Umbellata

This plant is propagated through stem cuttings, best done in spring or summer. Using clean shears, take a four to six-inch cutting from a healthy branch that includes at least one leaf and a couple of leaf nodes. The cutting can be rooted in water or soil.

For water propagation, place the cutting in a jar of water with a node submerged, and change the water weekly. Once roots are an inch or two long, transplant it into a pot with soil.

To root directly in soil, dip the cut end in a rooting hormone and plant it in a small pot with a moist, well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide bright, indirect light.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sudden leaf drop is a common stress response to an abrupt change in its environment, such as a new location or fluctuations in light or watering. Maintaining a consistent care routine is the best way to prevent this.

Yellowing leaves are often a sign of overwatering. This suggests the roots may be sitting in soil that is too wet, leading to root rot, so check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule.

Brown, crispy spots on the leaves or dried-out edges can be caused by underwatering, low humidity, or leaf scorch from excessive direct sunlight.

Ficus umbellata can be susceptible to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Regularly inspect your plant for signs of infestation. If pests are found, wipe the leaves clean with a damp cloth and treat the plant with insecticidal soap.