Weeping Fig Plant Care

Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina) belongs to the Moraceae family within the Ficus genus. Weeping Fig is native to India to Northern Australia. Weeping Fig is also known as Benjamin Fig, Ficus.

Weeping Fig displays an indoor tree, upright growth habit, reaching up to 50 ft tall with a spread of approximately 25 ft.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Weeping Fig every 7–14 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established trees mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Weeping Fig thrives in bright indirect light. Avoid placing Weeping Fig in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Ficus benjamina tolerates temperatures of 60–75°F. Weeping Fig prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Well-draining soil mix. Good drainage is essential for Weeping Fig to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Weeping Fig every 7 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established trees in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with bright indirect light and well-draining soil mix. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Weeping Fig is suited to USDA Zone 10b – 12b.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped trees in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Weeping Fig can spread to about 25 ft (7.6 m) and reach about 50 ft (15 m) tall. Space plants about 25 ft (7.6 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the tree spacing calculator.

Prune Weeping Fig while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the tree in one year.

Weeping Fig is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 10). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Weeping Fig can be propagated through stem cuttings in water or soil. Similar propagation techniques also apply to fig tree plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Weeping Fig is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Weeping Fig grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10b – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 10b. Weeping Fig is native to India to Northern Australia. In cooler regions, grow Weeping Fig as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.