Ficus benjamina ‘Natasja’

Origin and habitat

Ficus benjamina has a broad native range across tropical and subtropical Asia and into northern Australia. It grows as a branching tree in wet tropical forest and along forest margins under bright, filtered light. The setting remains warm, but the ground around the roots is aerated rather than continually saturated.

Light and watering for compact weeping fig growth

• Shaping and pot size: Cut healthy shoots just above a node when the crown needs shaping. Move up one pot size after the roots fill the container.
• Position and light: Keep the plant near bright indirect light and introduce gentle sun gradually. Consistent exposure helps the crown remain closely leafed.
• Moisture changes: Let the upper substrate begin to dry, then water evenly and drain the pot. Avoid sudden swings between severe dryness and saturation, which can trigger leaf drop.
• Stable conditions: Provide steady warmth and ordinary indoor humidity, away from cold draughts and direct heating.
• Plant food: Apply balanced fertiliser while shoots and leaves are actively developing.

Problems and solutions for Ficus benjamina ‘Natasja’

The crown sheds leaves suddenly: A move, cold draught, sharp light change or root stress can trigger shedding. Keep the position, temperature and moisture steady while the plant adjusts.

Yellowing begins on the lower leaves: Check if the substrate is remaining wet for too long. If the roots are healthy and drying normally, provide brighter filtered light.

Sticky patches collect inside the crown: Scale insects may be feeding on the leaves and stems. Keep the Ficus apart, remove visible scale from firm leaves and twigs, and treat branch forks and midribs at the labelled interval.

Ficus benjamina ‘Natasja’ is toxic to people and pets

• Keep this plant away from children, cats and dogs, and avoid contact with its milky sap.
• The latex contains ficin and psoralens, which can irritate the mouth, digestive tract, skin and eyes.
• Exposure may cause mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting, stomach pain or a skin rash. Contact a veterinarian or medical professional if symptoms develop or persist.

About the name Ficus benjamina

Classical Latin ficus means fig. The epithet benjamina preserves a historical plant name used for this fig.

Carl Linnaeus established the genus Ficus in 1753 in Species Plantarum, page 1059; Joseph Pitton de Tournefort had proposed the name.

Carl Linnaeus first described Ficus benjamina in 1767 in Mantissa Plantarum, page 129.