How to Grow and Care for Variegated Ficus Benjamina
A guide to the specific needs of the variegated weeping fig, from ensuring its creamy-white foliage flourishes to managing its common sensitivities.
The Variegated Ficus benjamina, or variegated weeping fig, is a popular indoor plant prized for its distinctive foliage. Its glossy green leaves feature irregular margins of creamy white or soft yellow, creating a bright, elegant appearance. This plant grows with a graceful, weeping habit, with slender branches that arch from a central trunk to form a dense, tree-like canopy.
Variegated Ficus Benjamina Care
Light
Variegated Ficus benjamina thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. An ideal placement is a few feet from a window where it can receive consistent, filtered light throughout the day. Exposing the plant to harsh, direct sunlight can scorch the delicate leaves, leading to yellowing and damage.
Soil
A well-draining potting mix is necessary to prevent water from pooling around the roots, which can lead to rot. Most standard peat-based potting soils work well, especially when amended to improve permeability. Incorporating materials like perlite or sand into the mix enhances drainage while retaining enough moisture.
Water
Water the soil thoroughly, but only when the top one to two inches have become dry to the touch. It is important to avoid overwatering, as constantly wet soil can cause root rot, a common issue with these plants. Using filtered or distilled water can prevent the buildup of minerals on the leaves.
Temperature and Humidity
Native to tropical regions, the Variegated Ficus benjamina prefers a warm and humid environment. It grows best in consistent temperatures above 60°F (16°C) and should be protected from cold drafts. Low humidity can cause leaves to dry out, so increasing ambient moisture is beneficial. This can be achieved by misting the leaves, placing the pot on a pebble tray with water, or using a room humidifier.
Fertilizer
During the active growing seasons of spring and summer, feed the ficus with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half-strength, every two to four weeks. Slow-release fertilizer pellets applied in the spring are another effective option. Fertilizing should be reduced or stopped during the fall and winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows.
Pruning and Repotting
Pruning is performed to keep the plant at a manageable size, encourage fuller growth, and remove any dead or dying branches. Using clean, sterilized pruning shears, make cuts just above a leaf node to stimulate new growth. This is typically done in late winter or early spring before the main growing season begins.
Repotting is necessary when the plant outgrows its container, which is indicated by slowed growth or roots emerging from the drainage holes. This is best done in the spring every two to three years. Select a new pot that is only one to two inches wider in diameter than the current one. Gently place the plant in the new pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water it well.
Propagating Variegated Ficus Benjamina
Propagate new plants through stem cuttings during the spring or summer. Using sterile shears, take a cutting that is four to six inches long and has at least two or three leaves. Make the cut just below a leaf node, as this is where new roots will form.
To propagate in water, remove the lowest leaves to prevent them from rotting and place the cut end into a container of clean water. Change the water every few days to keep it fresh. Once a viable root system has formed, the new plant can be transferred into a pot with a well-draining soil mix.
Alternatively, cuttings can be planted directly into soil. Dipping the cut end in a rooting hormone before planting can encourage faster root development, though it is not required. Plant the cutting in a moist, well-draining medium and place it in a location that receives bright, indirect light. Maintaining humidity by covering it with a plastic bag can support the rooting process.
Common Problems
One of the most frequent issues with Ficus benjamina is leaf drop, which is a reaction to stress. This can be triggered by sudden changes in its environment, such as being moved, fluctuations in light, or inconsistent watering. If leaves begin to drop, assess the plant’s conditions and try to maintain consistency in its care routine.
When the leaves on a variegated ficus start to revert to solid green, it is an indication that the plant is not receiving enough light. Moving the ficus to a brighter location with more indirect sunlight will typically resolve this issue. This encourages new growth to display the desired variegation.
These plants can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Regular inspection of the leaves and stems, particularly the undersides, can help you catch an infestation early. Spider mites may appear as tiny moving dots or fine webbing, while mealybugs look like small white cottony masses. If pests are found, treat them by wiping the leaves with a soft cloth or using a gentle insecticidal soap.
Toxicity
Variegated Ficus benjamina is toxic to pets and humans if its leaves or stems are ingested. The plant contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal issues in cats and dogs. The milky white sap that emerges when the plant is cut can also be a source of irritation. This sap may cause a rash on the skin, so it is advisable to wear gloves when pruning.