Ficus benjamina 'Variegata'

Add a timeless indoor statement with the variegated Weeping Fig. Its glossy, patterned leaves and graceful branching instantly elevate receptions, living rooms, and bright office corners. With simple care—bright filtered light and watering only when the topsoil dries—this ficus becomes a long-lived, sculptural centerpiece you can shape and style for years.

1. Basic Identification

Common Name: Variegated Weeping Fig
Botanical Name: Ficus benjamina
Former Name: Not available
Plant Type: Indoor tropical tree/houseplant
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0152
Alternative Names:
Weeping Fig
Benjamin Fig
Ficus benjamina 'Variegata'

2. Taxonomy & Classification

Order: Rosales
Family: Moraceae
Genus: Ficus
Species: benjamina

3. Origin & Distribution

Native to the tropical rainforests of South and Southeast Asia—including India, Malaysia, Indonesia—and northern Australia; widely cultivated worldwide as an indoor ornamental in both tropical and subtropical regions.

4. Visual Characteristics

Upright, branching habit with slender, smooth gray to brown stems; glossy, ovate leaves 5–10 cm long exhibiting creamy white to pale yellow variegation along margins and midrib; new foliage emerges light green with contrasting variegation; arching branches create a weeping silhouette.

5. Size & Dimensions

Indoors, typically reaches 1.8–3 m (6–10 ft) tall with a 0.6–1 m (2–3 ft) spread; leaf length 5–10 cm; trunk diameter up to 5 cm; growth rate moderate under optimal conditions.

6. Light Requirements

Thrives in bright, filtered light; tolerates medium indirect light but lower light reduces variegation and may cause leaf drop; avoid prolonged direct sun to prevent leaf scorch.

7. Watering Needs

Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry between waterings; water thoroughly until excess drains, then discard any standing water; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot; typically once weekly in growing season, less in winter.

8. Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining, aerated potting mix (e.g., equal parts peat or coco coir and perlite or coarse sand); soil pH slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0); repot every 2–3 years in spring to refresh media and accommodate root growth.

9. Temperature & Humidity

Optimal temperature range 18–24 °C (65–75 °F); minimum 15 °C (60 °F); sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature changes; prefers high humidity (>50%); mist foliage or use a humidifier if ambient humidity is low.

10. Fertilization

Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength; reduce frequency in autumn; withhold fertilizer in winter dormancy.

11. Maintenance & Care Level

Moderate care level; prune to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches; clean foliage occasionally to maximize light absorption; minimize environmental stress to prevent leaf drop.

12. Growth & Propagation

Propagate via semi-hardwood stem cuttings or air layering. For cuttings, select 10–15 cm stems with several leaves, remove lower foliage, dip in rooting hormone, and root in moist, well-draining medium under high humidity. Air layering yields larger plants more quickly.

13. Common Problems

Leaf drop triggered by overwatering, underwatering, low light, or drafts; pests include spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs—inspect regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil; root rot from poor drainage; yellowing leaves from nutrient imbalance.

14. Benefits & Uses

Popular ornamental indoor plant offering architectural interest; improves indoor air quality by removing formaldehyde, xylene, and other VOCs; can be trained as standards or bonsai; enhances residential and commercial interiors.

15. Toxicity & Safety

All parts contain ficin and other compounds that can irritate skin and mucous membranes; toxic if ingested by humans and pets, causing oral irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea; keep out of reach of children and animals.