Benjamin Ficus Tree 6”

Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig, Benjamin Ficus)
Native to Southeast Asia and parts of Australia, where it grows as a large tropical tree in bright, warm environments with consistent airflow
Valued for its elegant, tree-like structure and dense canopy, this plant is known for its fine branching and graceful, arching growth habit. It’s a staple indoor tree but sensitive to environmental change, making it a more advanced care plant
Leaves are small, oval, and slightly pointed with a smooth, glossy surface. Color ranges from deep green to variegated forms with cream or light green. Branches are thin and flexible, creating a soft, cascading canopy

Light requirements
Prefers east and south windows
Place directly at the window or within 1–2 ft. Can sit 3–5 ft back only in very bright, unobstructed light
Under grow lights use 5000K–6500K
Distance from canopy:
10–14 inches for steady growth
8–12 inches if pushing denser growth
Foot-candles: 800–2,500 for stable growth. Below 600 fc leads to leaf drop and thinning canopy

Watering & environment
Allow soil to dry about halfway down before watering
Always check the root zone, not the surface. The center of the root ball should be approaching dry before rehydrating
Prefers moderate humidity (40–60%), strong airflow, and stable temperatures above 65°F. Sensitive to drafts, temperature swings, and being moved frequently

What your plant is telling you
Needs water: leaves become slightly dull, softer, and may begin dropping gradually, especially older interior leaves
Too wet: rapid yellowing and drop of multiple leaves, especially lower ones, with consistently wet soil
Light issues: heavy leaf drop, thinning canopy, and elongated spacing between leaves indicate not enough light. Sudden leaf drop after moving is environmental shock, not just light change