Ficus Benjamina Care Guide
About Variegated Ficus Benjamina
Meet the gorgeous Variegated Ficus Benjamina (Ficus benjamina variegata), also known as Variegated Weeping Fig. It belongs to the mulberry family (Moraceae) and thrives in warm temperatures and indirect sunlight. Native to Southeast Asia and Australia, it grows outdoors in hardiness zones 10-12.
This gorgeous indoor tree features arching branches with small variegated leaves in vivid green and creamy hues. It’s hardy and relatively easy to care for, bringing fresh greenery to any space.
Note that all ficus plants, including the Variegated Weeping Fig, are toxic to pets, so supervise your furry friends around this plant.
Both the non-variegated and variegated Ficus Benjamina (Weeping Fig) symbolize prosperity, abundance, wisdom, enlightenment, and peace.
Consider growing other Ficus plants, such as the striking Ficus Burgundy or the much-loved Fiddle Leaf Fig.
Weeping Fig: Benefits
Weeping Fig Care: Growing Tips
Variegated Ficus Benjamina care is pretty easy once you understand this tree’s growing requirements.
Variegated Ficus Benjamina: Light Requirements & Temperature
- Light: Bright but indirect light is perfect for your Ficus Benjamina plant. Protect it from direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
- Temperature: Your Variegated Ficus Benjamina thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F.
Ficus Benjamina Variegated: Watering & Humidity
- Watering: Water your Ficus benjamina when the topsoil feels dry, about every 7-10 days. In the winter months, water this tree less frequently
- Humidity: Average indoor humidity is fine for this tropical indoor plant. Extremely dry air, however, can cause leaf drop.
Soil, Fertilizer, and Repotting
- Soil: Use nutrient-rich but well-draining soil for better aeration and optimal growth.
- Fertilizer: Feed your Weeping Fig tree with a balanced liquid fertilizer once or twice a month during the active growing season.
- Repotting: Repot once every 2-3 years into a slightly larger pot. These plants are prone to transplant shock, so complete the task with extra care.
Ficus Benjamina: Propagation
Propagate your Variegated Ficus Benjamina by taking healthy stem cuttings and planting them directly in moist soil or water. If you choose to root the cuttings in water, change it weekly. Then, plant the rooted cuttings in fresh soil once roots form. Ensure the new plants are protected from direct sunlight. Rooting should take place in 3-6 weeks.
Variegated Ficus Benjamina: Problems and Pruning
Prune your variegated Weeping Fig to remove damaged leaves and leggy branches. Trimming lower stems in the spring promotes bushier growth.
Common problems with Ficus benjamina variegata include leaf drop caused by sudden changes to its environment, overwatering, underwatering, and extremely dry conditions. Direct sunlight and insufficient humidity can result in brown leaf tips.
Ficus Benjamina: Companion Plants & Placement Options
The Variegated Weeping Fig makes a great statement plant, but it can also be grouped with other tropicals to create a beautiful plant display full of color and texture.
Great to Place on
The Variegated Ficus Benjamina is perfect for spacious rooms that receive indirect light. It can reach 10 feet indoors, so make sure it has enough space to grow or maintain its size by pruning it regularly in the spring. In the summer, it can go outside on the porch, provided it’s placed in partial shade.
Variegated Weeping Fig Grows Well With
Pair your Variegated Ficus Benjamina with other tropical plants that enjoy similar temperatures and light conditions.
- Ficus Tineke: Ficus Tineke (Ficus elastica Tineke) is a gorgeous indoor plant with pink and green foliage, making a great focal point in any room
- Dracaena Janet Craig: With its golden-green, striped foliage, the Dracaena Janet Craig (Dracaena fragrans ‘Compacta’) is an ideal floor plant that makes an instant statement.
- Sansevieria Robusta: Low-maintenance and perfect for beginners, the Sansevieria Robusta is a hardy succulent plant that tolerates occasional neglect.
Shop for Variegated Ficus Benjamina at Hey Rooted Now!
Care level: Extra love
Light: Medium
Not pet friendly
Water: Twice a month
