Botanical Name and Family:
Botanical Name: Ficus benjamina
Family: Moraceae
Botanical Characteristics:
Height: Can grow up to 6-10 feet tall indoors, with a spread of 2-3 feet.
Leaves: Small, glossy, oval-shaped leaves with pointed tips, densely packed along slender branches.
Fruit: Occasionally produces small, round fig-like fruits, although rare indoors.
Trunk: Often multi-trunked with a smooth gray bark.
Natural Habitat:
Native Range: Native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Australia.
Growth Requirements:
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate moderate light conditions.
Water: Requires regular watering, keeping the soil consistently moist during the growing season; reduce watering in winter.
Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter.
Temperature: Thrives in average room temperatures (65-75°F or 18-24°C); avoid cold drafts.
Cultivation Methods:
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix formulated for indoor plants.
Watering: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Lighting: Provide bright, indirect light; rotate the plant periodically for even growth.
Care Recommendations:
Propagation: Propagate through stem cuttings or air layering.
Fertilization: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Pests and Diseases: Monitor for pests like spider mites and scale insects; prone to leaf drop if conditions are not ideal.
Special Contents:
Chemical Compounds: None significant beyond standard care considerations.
Various Uses:
Applications: Valued as an ornamental indoor plant for its graceful foliage and air-purifying qualities.
Challenges and Limitations:
Issues: Sensitive to changes in watering and light conditions; may drop leaves if stressed.
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