White Ficus Plant

Description

1. Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Ficus benjamina (Variegated variety)

• Common Names: White Ficus, Variegated Weeping Fig, White Weeping Fig

• Family: Moraceae

• Type: Evergreen ornamental tree/shrub

2. Origin & Distribution

• Native To: Southeast Asia, India, Australia, and parts of the Pacific.

• Grown worldwide as an indoor decorative plant and in tropical/subtropical gardens.

3. Physical Characteristics

• Height & Spread: Can grow 3–6 feet indoors in pots, and up to 30 feet outdoors in warm climates.

• Leaves: Glossy, oval-shaped leaves with white or cream-colored variegation along the edges or patches.

• Growth Habit: Upright, slightly arching branches, forming a graceful canopy.

• Flowers & Fruits: Produces small, inconspicuous flowers and tiny fig-like fruits, though rare indoors.

4. Growing Conditions

• Light: Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight; variegation fades in low light.

• Soil: Well-draining potting mix with good aeration.

• Watering: Water when the topsoil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

• Temperature: Prefers 18°C–27°C (65°F–80°F); sensitive to cold drafts.

• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity is ideal for leaf health.

5. Maintenance & Care

• Pruning: Light pruning maintains desired shape and size.

• Fertilization: Feed monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

• Pests/Diseases: Can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs; leaf drop can occur due to stress from sudden changes in environment.

6. Uses & Benefits

• Ornamental Value: Popular as a living room, office, and lobby plant for its elegant foliage.

• Air Purification: Known to filter indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene.

• Feng Shui Value: Considered to promote calmness, positive energy, and prosperity.

7. Lifespan

• Long-lived when provided with stable growing conditions; can thrive indoors for 15+ years with proper care.