Ficus benghalensis

About benghalensis

Ficus benghalensis, the Indian banyan, is a large evergreen tree in the mulberry family (Moraceae), native to the Indian subcontinent. It often begins life as an epiphyte on another tree, then sends down aerial roots from its branches that thicken into woody, trunk-like pillars after reaching the ground, allowing a single tree to spread over a wide area. It grows up to about 30 m tall. The leaves are leathery, ovate to elliptic, with prominent veins. The figs are borne in pairs in the leaf axils, about 1 to 2.5 cm across, turning red or orange when ripe. As a container plant it stays much smaller and is grown for its broad leaves and pale trunk. The milky sap can irritate skin.

Care Guide

LightPartial Sun

WateringModerate (When Dry)

Temperature5℃〜

HumidityModerate

Difficulty:

Beginner

Care Tips

Place in a bright spot, ideally with sun filtered through a sheer curtain. It tolerates some shade, but very dark rooms cause leaf drop. In spring and summer, water thoroughly once the soil has dried down to the middle of the pot; in autumn and winter, wait two or three days after the soil dries before watering. Keep it away from cold windows at night and direct air from heaters or air conditioners. It can survive around 5°C, but prolonged exposure below about 10°C turns the leaves brown, so keeping it at 10°C or above in winter is safer. The latex sap can irritate skin, so wear gloves when pruning and keep the plant out of reach of children and pets.