Weeping fig (Ficus benjamina)

Weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) is a species of fig tree in the family Moraceae, native to South and Southeast Asia and Australia. It is also known as Ficus, Benjamin's Fig or the Ficus tree. Ficus benjamina is the official tree of Bangkok, Thailand.

Weeping fig is an evergreen, weeping tree, often with aerial roots. It grows up to 30 m tall in natural environment, with drooping branches and glossy green leaves, 6-13 cm long with an acute tip. It bears insignificant clusters of flowers in spring or summer, and the small fruits are a favorite fruit for birds.

It is a popular house plant in temperate areas, growing for its appearance and tolerance of poor growing conditions. In tropical regions, the weeping fig is often cultivated at gardens and parks. For residential planting, it is advisable to only use weeping fig as a hedge or clipped screen, due to its invasive roots.

Weeping fig prefers full light or partial shade, and fertile, well-drained soil. Water potted specimens moderately, but less in low temperature.

Weeping fig (Ficus benjamina)
Author: Darsie (public domain)

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