Ficus Benjamina

Why It's A Great Gift

Arching branches and glossy leaves for a calm, leafy room

Ficus benjamina, the weeping fig, is a classic indoor tree, with slender, gently arching branches covered in small, glossy, pointed leaves. It brings height, softness and a touch of the tropics to any bright room.

It makes an elegant feature in a living room, office or entranceway near a bright window. Find it a good spot and let it settle, and it will reward you with years of lush growth. A lasting gift for a new home, a new office or a milestone celebration.

Care at a glance

Find its spot, then let it settle

Bright light, steady conditions and careful watering help this indoor tree thrive. Here is what it needs.

  • Light

    Bright indirect light

    Choose a bright spot near a window, out of hot afternoon sun. Gentle morning sun is fine, but a dark corner leads to sparse growth and dropped leaves.

  • Water

    When dry to touch

    Water thoroughly once the top 2–3cm of mix is dry, then let it drain. Never leave it sitting in water, and water less often in winter.

  • Climate

    Frost tender

    Keep indoors in a warm room, away from cold draughts and heaters. Sudden temperature changes can cause leaf drop.

  • Soil

    Potting mix

    A good-quality indoor potting mix with added perlite or bark keeps the roots moist but airy.

  • Size

    Around 1.5 - 3m tall indoors

    Grows into a small indoor tree over time, and can be pruned in late winter or early spring to keep it in shape.

  • Pets

    Toxic to pets

    Ficus benjamina is toxic to cats and dogs and can cause stomach upset and skin irritation. Keep it out of reach of pets that chew plants.

Ficus benjamina, the weeping fig, named for its gracefully drooping branches.

Origins

The weeping fig comes from the warm tropical regions of Southeast Asia and northern Australia, where it grows into a large tree. Each small leaf ends in a fine, pointed ‘drip tip’ that helps shed tropical rain.

It is a member of the fig family, related to the rubber plant and fiddle-leaf fig, and has been a favourite indoor tree for decades.

Questions

Something else? Get in touch, we're happy to help.

Is a Ficus Benjamina easy to care for?

Ficus Benjamina is relatively easy to care for, but it can be sensitive to environment changes such as temperature, light, or being moved around often.

How much light does a Ficus Benjamina need?

Ficus Benjamina thrives in bright, but indirect, sunlight. In lower light conditions, growth might slow and the leaves may droop. A stable, well lit position is ideal.

How often should I water a Ficus Benjamina?

Ficus Benjamina prefers evenly moist soil but should not be overwatered. Ensure the pot has good drainage to stop the plant sitting in water for extended periods of time.

Does a Ficus Benjamina need warmth/humidity?

Ficus Benjamina prefers warm indoor temperatures and moderate humidity. Normal household conditions in New Zealand are ideal, but just try and keep the plant out of the direct heat from a heat pump, air conditioner, or heater.

Is a Ficus Benjamina safe for pets?

Unfortunately, Ficus Benjamina should be kept away from cats or dogs. The leaves are toxic if ingested, and the sap can cause skin irritation.

What people say

5.0 from 2 reviews

  • Couldn't be happier with this ficus, well presented and clearly good quality stock.
    Nicole C ·
  • Arrived quickly and in great condition.
    Mia Thompson ·
Delivery times

North Island

We aim to deliver orders received by 10am (Monday to Friday) to main North Island centres the next working day. Add 1-2 days for rural deliveries and outlying towns, as the courier may not deliver daily.

South Island

Deliveries to South Island main centres take 2-3 working days if received before 10am, plus 1-2 days for rural deliveries and outlying towns, as the courier may not deliver daily.

General

We are also unable to arrange delivery on weekends.

We will do our best to deliver on days specified, but unfortunately we cannot guarantee.