Find a good, bright spot because low light will drop off all its leaves or lose their variegation. Cuttings can also be rooted simply by inserting the ends in the soil. The weeping fig plants can be easily propagated using stem cuttings (only non-woody) and replant it in potting soil in spring. The above ground is composed of aerial roots, which are, like any epiphytic, adventitious. The dense, rounded canopy and gracefully drooping branches of weeping fig made it quite popular as a landscape tree until recently. After the pests, the recording of the diseases follows. And while for the first form of exploitation we can not speak of misuse, except in terms of more or less aesthetics, for the second we are clearly entitled not only to refer to misuse but even destructive. Weeping fig stems are often trained in ornamental shapes. select a convenient spot where you won’t need to move it very often. Therefore, appropriate light, water, soil, pruning, and fertilization are essential for a healthy plant. These pollutants may irritate the nose, mouth, and throat, swelling the larynx and lungs, Weeping fig contains toxic compounds, like ficin, furocoumarins, and ficusin. The thick, shiny, two to four-inch-long, evergreen leaves generously clothe the long branches, and the tiny figs eventually turn a yellow, orange, or dark red when ripe. All plant parts of the species contain the milky sap, the latex, which is composed of toxic substances such as furocoumarins, psoralens and the enzyme ficin (or ficain). At the same time, the aerial parts of the roots, tighten more and more the trunk of the host, preventing the trunk from expanding, while with the development of their own foliage, they literally cover the foliage of the other. And this is not a figure of speech, but a fact that concerns a reality that insists on ignoring key features of the tree, such as in this case its most powerful underground root system. Most of them differ in size, such as the ‘Too Little’ variety that is particularly suitable for creating bonsai Figs, as well as in the shape or the colour of the leaves. and moves the plant into a pot one size larger. Apart from this plant dislikes being moved so. Ficus (/ ˈ f aɪ k ə s / or / ˈ f iː k ə s /) is a genus of about 850 species of woody trees, shrubs, vines, epiphytes and hemiepiphytes in the family Moraceae.Collectively known as fig trees or figs, they are native throughout the tropics with a few species extending into the semi-warm temperate zone. On either side of the midvein are 8 to 10 almost regularlly spaced secondary nerves, which are anastomosed near the margins, while the tertiary nerves are also visible. Nelson, L. S., Shih, R. D., & Balick, M. J. Whereas this plant usually does not bloom or fruit indoors (2). Therefore, to avoid its harmful effects, use only distilled or filtered water. As with high temperatures, so with soil types, the tree does not face the slightest problem as long as their drainage is excellent. While the stems are young and flexible they may be braided, spiraled or twisted into shapes such as hearts. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina) – Description & Uses, Common Names: Weeping Fig, Weeping Chinese Banyan, Java Laurel, Java Willow, Java Tree, Beringin, Benjamin Tree, Small-Leaved Fig, Small-Leaved Rubber Plant, Benjamin’s Fig, Malayan Banyan, Java Fig, Tropical Laurel, Weeping Laurel, 15-30 m (50-100 ft) Ind/rs: 0.90-3 m (3-10 ft), 18-30 m (60-100 ft) Ind/rs: 0.90-3 m (3-10 ft), Soil Type: Well-drained, sand, loam, clay, Hardiness: −1.1 °C (30 °F – USDA Hardiness zone 10b), Specimen, urban planting, highway median, bonsai, pots and containers indoor and outdoor. The Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina) is this time the honorary strangler invited by "Kalliergeia". This plant requires water in a moderate amount when the top few inches of soil are dry. Water thoroughly, then allows the soil to dry slightly between watering. Not all Ficus produce edible fruit. Plant Care Instructions Light. Over-watering and under-watering may cause yellow-brown spots, loss of the leaves, and may develop root rot. However, the repotting of, young plants should be done every year. The cradle of Weeping Fig is located in a relatively large area of the planet, which includes part of Southeast Asia and Oceania. Weeping figs need direct sunlight in the morning hours (3–4 hrs/day) near the window for indoor and outdoor partial shading is necessary. Ficus Benjamina, or the weeping fig, is a popular indoor variety. However, as an indoor plant, it is best to avoid direct exposure to sunlight and to place it where the light is diffused. The best time of repotting is the beginning of spring. Their size varies, having dimensions of 0.7 to 1 cm width and 0.8 to 1.5 cm length. Therefore, appropriate light, water, soil, pruning, and fertilization are essential for a healthy plant. Cuttings can also be rooted simply by inserting the ends in the soil. It is a wonderful plant that can grab people’s interest to grow as indoor as well as outdoor plants. The Weeping Fig is a Ficus which means the sap within the plant is generally mildly toxic to most pets and people. Weeping fig plants can clean the indoor air from a harmful chemical such as formaldehyde, toluene, xylene, and hydrocarbon. For indoor, it can be placed near a sunny window and for outdoors, partial shading is necessary. How do you care for an indoor weeping fig tree? When they accidentally consume this plant, it may result in nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (4). It grows there in primitive or disturbed tropical and wet mixed forests, as well as in those where species belonging to the family Dipterocarpaceae predominate (mixed dipterocarp forests). Weeping fig contains toxic compounds, like ficin, furocoumarins, and ficusin. By using the appropriate insecticides and acaricides, their treatment is from satisfactory to difficult, except for nematodes, which are very difficult to control. Ficus benjamina, commonly called weeping fig, is native from India to northern Australia. When they accidentally consume this plant, it may result in, Weeping fig plants contain milky irritating sap (latex) in the stems and leaves which cause skin irritation when exposed to skin cut, If a person who is allergic to latex should avoid getting the latex liquid on their skin, . Weeping fig can grow indoor as well as outdoor. is the oldest Chinese Bonsai indoor tree, one of the best for beginners and it is relatively inexpensive. In relation to the climatic types the following are mentioned: (Köppen–Geiger Climate Classification System). Fiddleleaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) This ficus species has large leathery leaves (up to 18 inches) similar in … The natural habitats of the tree vary, as its populations can be found in various environments, from inaccessible areas of the heart of forests to near villages, and from rocky areas to riparian rivers and streams, and in various soil types with sandy up to limestone soils. Weeping fig is sensitive to changes in their environment, sudden change of location may cause yellowing and dropping leaves. These compounds may cause gastrointestinal and dermal irritation to cats and dogs. People use fig fruit for conditions such as constipation and diarrhea. As a bonus, the Benjamin Fig requires very little maintenance! However, it thrives in fertile sandy loamy or loam sandy soils, which retain the necessary moisture and are from acidic to alkaline, ie with pH values from 5.5 to 8.1, but having as optimum those that are between 6 and 6.5. These pollutants may irritate the nose, mouth, and throat, swelling the larynx and lungs (3). Pruning is necessary to maintain their appearance. ) © Foodthesis participates in the Amazon Associates and affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for site to earn commissions by linking to Amazon. In the end, the summoned phyto-coroner will state that the host did not die of heartbreak, but of choking – as a result of his strangulation by Benjamin’s Fig. But t. here are a few questions that arise about how to propagate these amazing plants. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. A two-faced strangler, since as an indoor plant, shows only his benevolent and slightly weeping ornamental side, and therefore can deceive the unsuspecting plant lover about his true temperament, while in contrast into his physical condition, shows its other side, as it unfolds all the wild and aggressive surviving talents that generally characterize its clan – that is, the genus Ficus – and consist in the choking of those trees, on which as a hemi-epiphyte happens to take its first steps in life. Αρχική | Home » PLANTS » Botanical Description, Varieties & Use of Ficus benjamina. It is sometimes confused with Ficus microcarpa, which is actually less weepy and more upright. Prune the weeping fig plants necessary to maintain its size, remove, and keep branches strong. As an indoor plant, it has a bushy or small tree habit, it is of a formalistic style, while its dimensions are significantly smaller, since it reaches up to 3 m in height and about 1 in diameter. Older trees may grow fruit, but it shouldn't be eaten. The changeable leaves are simple, entire and stalked. Weeping Figs are characterized by having ovoid, shiny green leaves that taper distally to a dull point. Watering only when the top few inches of soil are dry. It requires fertilizer during the growing season, drastic pruning to control its size. Dermal irritation is also possible if the sap gets on the pet’s skin. Fiddle Leaf Ficus, or Ficus Lyrata, is another popular variety for use as a houseplant. It is mixed with water, or syrup and flavorings — usually lemon — to … F. benjamina (the weeping fig) F. lyrata (the fiddle-leaf fig) F. sagittata (creeping fig) These trees will provide years of enjoyment when cared for properly. The widely spread, highly branching tree top often covers a diameter of 10 meters. Fertilize about once a month standard half-diluted fertilizer. Keep it moderately watered at all times. After all, besides its hemi-epiphytic behavior, it is also an excellent lithophytic plant, having the ability to take root even on a rock. Ingestion of plant parts may cause gastrointestinal issues, while while skin contact with the latex may cause short-term skin irritation. They are native to Asia where they can grow as high as 50 feet tall. Weeping fig is sensitive to changes in their environment, sudden change of location may cause yellowing and dropping leaves. Ficus is a large genus of about 800-1000 tree and shrub species native to the tropics and subtropics that are often cultivated beyond their native range for their fig fruits or as ornamentals. This plant produces creamy white to yellowish flowers in summer only when grown outdoors. Weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) is an evergreen tree or shrub, belonging to the family Moraceae. Specifically, the birthplace of the plant are the tropics of India, Malaysia, the Peninsular Malaysia (Southern Thailand, Myanmar), the Philippines, Australia (Northern Australia, Queensland), and the Solomon Islands. Extremely popular as a houseplant, Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig) is an evergreen shrub or tree adorned with a dense, rounded canopy and gracefully drooping branches. Immediately below we will try to present all these uses as concisely as possible – because someday we have to complete this article as well. Mist and spray the soil surface until the roots are growing out. In destroyed or degraded rainforests, Benjamin’s Fig is one of the main trees planted in them, acting as a pioneer species for their rapid restoration (as in Thailand, in reforestation projects). Whether or not to be accepted, that is, in general, another story. Weeping fig is one common name for Ficus benjamina. Already one of the most popular indoor green plants thanks to its appearance and durability, it saw its reputation skyrocket after its inclusion in plants – air purifiers, the famous NASA research. The plant is therefore toxic to pets (cats, dogs) and stabled (horses) – for free range (eg alligators) we have no idea. You have entered an incorrect email address! Dry them. Figs are a unique fruit resembling a teardrop. The obligate pollinator of Ficus benjamina is the fig wasp species Eupristina koningsbergeri. The male florets are few in number, are carried on a short peduncle, have a stamen on a relatively long filament, and are surrounded by a three-lobed or four-lobed calyx, with broadly ovate lobes. The young foliage is light green and slig… Weeping Figs can look striking and elegant in almost every setting With the high and very high temperatures it does not face the slightest problem, since in its natural habitats it copes with the warmest month of the year, mean maximum temperature ranging from 28 up to 49 °C. This plant is famous for its narrow, pointed glossy green leaves that grow as an indoor as well as an outdoor houseplant. It is a member of the mulberry (Moraceae) family and is very popular as an indoor container plant in the United States. Also avoid cold drafts, dry heat, and sudden temperature changes. The bark of young branches is brownish. Glossy, slender-pointed ovate leaves, 5 in. long (12 cm) generously clothe the long branches. It also inhibits the growth of fungi like, Moreover, these phenolic compounds also increase the antioxidant defense system. Cultivars are available with variegated foliage, with wavy leaves and with pendulous branches. It can grow to a height of circa 97 cm, and can last up to 45 years as a houseplant. Thus protect the body from several clinical disorders such as diabetes mellitus, cancer, renal failures, and degenerative diseases (12). These roots are the first that Benjamin’s Fig grows, as it usually grows on the branches of other trees. Soil. Furthermore, this plant is also susceptible to disease and aphids or spider mites infestation begins to drop its leaves. The desire of the site traveler to backing the unpaid site’s creators is his inalienable right. In some parts of the world, its leaves and fruit extract are used, by indigenous communities to treat skin and, inflammation, piles, vomiting, leprosy, malaria, nose-diseases, and cancer, Besides the use as a general tonic, its leaves and twigs are used as an insect repellant, – Weeping fig leaves contain a high amount of polyphenolic compounds. Weeping fig is one of the best plants for improving air qu… The cystoliths are visible on the adaxial surface of the blade as raised dots, and the waxy glands are either absent or present at the base of the midvein, at the junction with petiole.