Indoor Ficus: Cultivation and Maintenance

Botany and Description

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The Ficus belongs to the large Moraceae family, a botany family that includes plants of very varied forms, from majestic trees to small creeping plants. The genus name Ficus comes directly from Latin, meaning “fig tree”, and refers to Ficus carica, the common fig tree, cultivated for its fruit in our gardens. However, this vast genus encompasses over 800 species, some of which are well known under French names such as the weeping fig (Ficus benjamina), the rubber plant (Ficus elastica), the lyre fig (Ficus lyrata) or the creeping fig (Ficus pumila).

Ficus lyrata, Ficus elastica and Ficus benjamina

In their natural habitat, “indoor” ficus plants thrive mainly in tropical and subtropical forests of Asia, Africa, and America. They evolve in warm and humid environments, often in the shade of large trees, climbing or spreading according to the species. Some, like Ficus benghalensis, can even become giants by spreading through their aerial roots that form veritable forests on their own.

The banyan or Ficus benghalensis

This adaptability makes the ficus a very popular indoor plant. It brings an exotic and lush touch to living spaces with its dense and decorative foliage. Moreover, the Ficus copes relatively well with indoor conditions, tolerating indirect light and the drier atmospheres of homes. Its species diversity allows for a choice of varied forms, shiny or textured foliage, to suit all styles of decor, from the most classic to the most modern.

A sulky plant! The Ficus benjamina is famous for its sensitivity to change. If it is moved or if its conditions are suddenly changed (such as a draft or irregular watering), it can lose a large part of its leaves overnight. This often gives the impression that it is “sulking”. But not to worry! This is its way of adapting, and it will regrow leaves once well acclimated.

Some beautiful varieties to welcome indoors

The Ficus benjamina ‘Natasja’ is a more compact and bushy version of the classic weeping fig. Its dense foliage composed of small shiny green leaves gives it an elegant and neat appearance. Thanks to its reduced size and moderate growth, it is ideal for small spaces or as an office plant.

The Ficus elastica ‘Schrijveriana’ is an impressive cultivar of the traditional rubber plant. Its large thick leaves display marbled patterns of light green and cream, creating a spectacular contrast. In addition to its aesthetics, it shares the robustness of other Ficus elastica, adapting well to medium light conditions and tolerating watering forgetfulness.

The Ficus pumila ‘Arina’, often nicknamed dwarf Ficus or creeping Ficus, is an adorable climbing or trailing plant. Its small dark green, thick, and shiny leaves offer a very decorative carpeting effect. The Ficus pumila ‘Bellus’ stands out for its more textured foliage. Its leaves are slightly undulate and feature lighter shades on the edges, adding depth to the plant.

Watch out for invasiveness! The Ficus elastica or rubber plant can grow very large if left unchecked. It is not uncommon for owners to neglect pruning their ficus and end up with a tree that touches the ceiling! Its roots can even attempt to expand into neighbouring pots or lift tiles if the plant is directly in a massive pot. It’s a true force of nature, even indoors!

Botanical Description of Ficus

It is difficult to generalize a description that would apply to all Ficus, as the genus is so diverse.

Tropical and subtropical Ficus form a group of very different plants, ranging from small creeping ground covers to majestic centuries-old trees. Their general habit varies greatly according to the species: some, like the Ficus benjamina, adopt an elegant silhouette with slightly trailing branches that create a sense of lightness. Others, like the Ficus elastica, have a more upright and robust habit with thick branches and a well-defined trunk. Species such as the Ficus benghalensis (banyan fig) have a spectacular development with their branches spreading widely, supported by aerial roots that become real secondary trunks.

The root system of Ficus in nature is particularly impressive. Many species develop aerial roots that descend from branches and anchor into the soil, allowing the tree to expand horizontally and create monumental structures, as seen in the Ficus benghalensis. Others, like the Ficus elastica, have robust and deep roots that help stabilize massive trunks. These roots are not only structural but also serve to capture moisture from the air, an asset in tropical environments.

The foliage of ficus is another key element of their appeal. It is generally evergreen, providing plant cover all year round. The leaves vary according to the species: the Ficus elastica features large ovate leaves, thick and shiny, often bordered with red veins, while the Ficus lyrata is recognizable by its large lyre-shaped leaves, veined and tough. The Ficus pumila, on the other hand, has small ovate leaves, thin and slightly textured. This lush foliage is not only decorative but also adapted to their natural environment, limiting water loss thanks to their thick and waxy texture.

Ficus eslastica, Ficus benjamina, Ficus pumila and Ficus lyra

The flowering of ficus, however, is discreet, almost insignificant. They do not produce showy flowers like other plants, as their flowers are enclosed within small fig-shaped structures called synconia. Inside these synconia, tiny flowers are hidden that often require specific insects, like certain species of wasps, for pollination. This flowering goes unnoticed to the naked eye and usually lasts a few weeks. In ornamental species cultivated indoors, flowering is rare, as conditions are not ideal for its formation.

? Good to know: the Ficus elastica was identified by the famous NASA study as a plant capable of purifying indoor air. It absorbs certain toxins like formaldehyde and improves air quality.

Beware of the latex!

The latex that flows from the branches of indoor ficus is a white, thick sap. This liquid appears when the plant is injured, for example after pruning or if a branch or leaf is broken. This phenomenon is particularly visible in species like the Ficus elastica and the Ficus benjamina.

This latex is not merely decorative or harmless: it plays a role in natural protection for the plant. When an injury occurs, the sap flows to quickly seal the wound, thus preventing the entry of pathogens or parasites. This sap contains rubbery compounds (hence the name Ficus elastica) that form a kind of protective barrier.

However, this latex is also toxic and can cause skin irritations. It contains enzymes and chemical compounds such as furocoumarins and allergenic proteins that can irritate the skin and mucous membranes. Direct contact can lead to redness, itching, or even minor burns. In sensitive or allergic individuals, it can cause more pronounced reactions. If latex comes into contact with the eyes, it can even cause painful inflammation.

It is therefore recommended to wear gloves during pruning or maintenance of ficus to avoid any contact with this sap. If latex touches the skin, it is advisable to rinse immediately with clear water and soap. As for pets, keep them away from this sap, as it can also be toxic if ingested.

Planting and Exposure

Exposure

• Bright but not in direct sunlight: Ficus plants enjoy light, but fear the direct rays of the sun which can burn their leaves.
• Close to an east or west-facing window: soft and indirect light is ideal.
• Avoid drafts and sudden changes in temperature, as this can cause the leaves to drop.

Type of Pot

• Pot with drainage holes to prevent water accumulation and root rot.
• Appropriately sized: neither too large nor too small. The pot should provide space for the roots without being disproportionate.
• Material: terracotta (good aeration) or plastic (lighter, but retains more moisture).

Type of Substrate

• Well-draining substrate: a mix of 2/3 universal potting soil, 1/3 sand or perlite to enhance aeration.
• Ready-to-use option: a special indoor plant potting soil is very suitable.

Repotting

• Every 2 to 3 years in spring, when the roots begin to emerge from the drainage holes or when growth slows down.
• Change to a pot slightly larger or simply renew the top layer of potting soil each year (top-dressing)

How to Grow and Maintain a Ficus?

Watering

• Moderate: water when the top 2-3 cm of the soil is dry.
• In summer: about once a week.
• In winter: reduce to once every 2-3 weeks.
• Avoid stagnant water: always remember to empty the saucer after watering.

Please note: as with many indoor plants, misting is essential for the well-being of the Ficus, especially in winter with heating. A lack of ambient humidity can cause dry leaves, brown tips, or even leaf drop. It is recommended to mist the foliage with non-limestone water at room temperature, once or twice a week, taking care not to overly wet the young shoots.

Fertilisation

• From April to September: provide liquid fertiliser for green plants every 2 to 4 weeks.
• In winter: no need to fertilise, as the plant is in vegetative rest.

Pruning

• In spring or early summer: just to control the size and shape.
• Trim any troublesome or damaged branches with clean scissors.
• Pinch back young shoots to encourage a bushier habit.

Be careful! The latex can be irritating. Remember to wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.

Repotting

• Every 2 to 3 years in spring, when the roots start to emerge from the drainage holes or when growth slows down.
• Change to a pot slightly larger or simply renew the top layer of potting soil each year (top-dressing).

Dusting

For Ficus with large leaves, such as Ficus elastica or Ficus lyrata, it is recommended to regularly dust the leaves with a soft, damp cloth to promote photosynthesis and maintain their glossy appearance. This action also helps to prevent the appearance of parasitic pests that like to hide on dirty leaves.

Additionally, taking indoor plants outside during a nice summer rain is a good way to naturally clean the foliage, especially for the smaller leaves of a Ficus benjamina, for example.

Potential Diseases and Parasitic Issues

Indoor Ficus plants are generally robust, but they can be susceptible to certain diseases and attacked by various parasitic organisms, especially when their growing conditions are not optimal.

Common Diseases

• Root rot: caused by overwatering or poor drainage, it is characterized by leaves that turn yellow and fall off, as well as a soft trunk. The roots become black and emit an unpleasant odour.
• Powdery mildew: this fungal disease is identified by a white powdery deposit on the leaves. It often appears in environments that are too humid and poorly ventilated.
• Foliar spots: brown or black spots appear on the leaves, caused by fungi or bacteria. Excessive moisture promotes their development.

Common Parasites

• Scale insects: these small brown or white insects, shaped like little domes or cottony patches, settle on the stems and undersides of leaves, sucking the sap from the plant. They leave sticky traces called honeydew, which can lead to the appearance of sooty mould (a black fungus).
• Red spider mites: tiny and difficult to see with the naked eye, they weave fine webs on the leaves and cause yellow spots before the leaves dry out. They appear especially in warm and dry atmospheres.
• Aphids: these are small green, black, or yellow insects, they colonize young shoots and also excrete honeydew, attracting ants and sooty mould.
• Thrips: these elongated insects leave silver trails and deform the leaves by piercing them to extract the sap.
• Fungus gnats (sciarids): although less dangerous, these small black insects appear when the substrate is too moist. Their larvae may eventually attack the young roots.

Prevention and Treatments

• Avoid overwatering and ensure that the pot is well-drained.
• Regularly ventilate the room to limit stagnant humidity.
• Clean the leaves with a damp cloth to prevent parasites from settling.
• For mild infestations, use diluted black soap or nettle manure.

How to Propagate Ficus?

Propagating Ficus is relatively simple and can be done using two methods depending on the species and the gardener’s preference: propagation by cuttings or air layering.

Propagation by Cuttings (the simplest method)

Ideal Period: in spring or early summer, when the plant is in full growth.

Steps:

• Take a healthy stem of 10 to 15 cm, bearing 2 to 3 leaves. Choose a semi-woody stem (neither too tender nor too hard).
• Cut below a node with clean secateurs. Remove the lower leaves to keep only the upper ones.
• Stop the flow of latex by dipping the base in warm water for a few minutes or by dabbing with a cloth.
• Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a light and draining mix (compost + sand or perlite).
• Moisten the substrate lightly without soaking it.
• Cover with a clear plastic bag or a mini-greenhouse to create a greenhouse effect (enclosed cutting).
• Place in light without direct sunlight and keep the substrate moist.
• Wait 4 to 8 weeks: roots should appear. When new leaves grow, the cutting is ready to be repotted.

Air Layering (ideal for large Ficus like Ficus elastica or Ficus lyrata)

Ideal Period: in spring or summer.

Steps:

• Choose a vigorous branch and remove leaves around 10 cm around a node.
• Make slight incisions in the bark by making two small parallel cuts and remove the bark between them.
• Wrap the area with moist sphagnum moss, then surround it with plastic wrap or a clear bag to maintain moisture.
• Close the ends with ties to prevent evaporation.
• Monitor the moisture of the sphagnum. After 1 to 2 months, roots should appear.
• Once well-rooted, cut below the root ball and plant the new young plant in a suitable pot.

General Tips

• Always use clean and disinfected tools to prevent infections.
• Maintain a regular moisture without excess water to avoid rot.
• Do not expose young plants to full sunlight, but to gentle light.
• Be patient: ficus can sometimes take several weeks to show signs of recovery.

How to Enhance the Appearance of a Ficus?

The Ficus is an extremely versatile plant that adapts to many interior design styles. Its lush foliage and various forms make it suitable for integration into both modern and more natural settings. Here are some decor ideas suited to different species of ficus and the styles of pots that will enhance them:

Ficus elastica (Rubber Plant)

• Interior Style: perfect for modern, industrial, or minimalist interiors. Its thick, glossy leaves add a graphic and elegant touch.
• Type of Pot: a matte or glossy ceramic planter, in neutral tones (white, black, grey) or in concrete for an industrial effect. A golden brass or copper metal pot can also enhance its chic side in a more sophisticated interior.
• Location: near a large window or in a corner of the room to occupy vertical space.

Ficus lyrata (Fiddle Leaf Fig)

• Interior Style: ideal for Scandinavian, bohemian, or contemporary decors thanks to its large sculptural leaves. It quickly becomes a centerpiece.
• Type of Pot: a wicker or jute basket for a natural and bohemian ambiance. In a more streamlined interior, a terracotta or light concrete pot accentuates its design aspect.
• Location: isolated in a bright corner or near a sofa, it elegantly structures the space.

Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig)

• Interior Style: very versatile, it suits classic, cosy, or even vintage decors with its trailing and light habit.
• Type of Pot: an enamelled ceramic pot with subtle patterns or a colourful planter to energize the decor. A wooden stand pot can also highlight its airy silhouette.
• Location: near a veiled window or in a spacious entryway, it brings softness and volume.

Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig or Climbing Fig)

• Interior Style: perfect for plant-filled, urban, or rustic decors. Its dense and delicate foliage is ideal for dressing up shelves or walls.
• Type of Pot: a macramé hanging planter for a bohemian vibe or a terracotta wall pot to create a green wall. A raw concrete or transparent glass pot also showcases its fine roots.
• Location: hung near a window or placed on a shelf to let its stems trail elegantly.

Ficus microcarpa ‘Ginseng’ (Bonsai)

• Interior Style: ideal for zen, minimalist, or Asian interiors, thanks to its nodose trunk and small leaves.
• Type of Pot: a simple enamelled ceramic pot, often ovate or rectangular, highlights its aerial roots. Subdued colours like black, anthracite grey, or earth tones are perfect.
• Location: on a well-lit console or shelf, it immediately draws attention.

General Decor Tips

• Pairing the ficus with other plants helps create a soothing green corner.
• Varying heights by combining floor-standing, elevated, or hanging pots adds depth.
• Choosing natural materials (wicker, wood, ceramic) to enhance the plant ambiance or raw materials (concrete, metal) for a more contemporary effect.