Ficus Ginseng – Indoor Plants

Ficus Ginseng is an ornamental indoor plant. It has green to dark green leaves which alternate up the stem and which are more oval than the Benjamina and more like the Retusa, but more extensive. The leaves are glossy, dark green, leathery and densely clothed on branches. Grey-brown bark which is relatively smooth has a heavy trunk with terrific aerial roots. It makes an excellent bonsai and looks brilliant in any contemporary room setting. Ficus Ginseng filters airborne toxins from the environment. It is considered to be poisonous, therefore keep away from children and animals.

Scientific Name: Ficus microcarpa Ginseng
Common Names: Ficus Ginseng, Indian Laurel, Belly Fig, Laurel Fig, Laurel Rubber, Curtain Fig, and Strangling Fig.

How to grow and maintain Ficus microcarpa Ginseng:

Light:
It thrives best bright, indirect light but can tolerate some partial shade. Harsh, direct sunlight may burn the leaves.

Water:
Water your plant regularly during the growing season and always keep the soil evenly moist but never allow your plant to sit in water. You can allow the topsoil to become slightly dry between each watering. During the winter months, reduce watering.

Temperature:
It grows well as an indoor bonsai, although being a tropical it likewise appreciates being outside in the summer. In indoors the plant should be kept in conditions between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit, and protected from drafts to avoid leaf drop. When outdoors in the hottest summer months offer a few protection from the direct afternoon sun.

Fertilizer:
Feed weekly or every two weeks during summer, every two to four weeks during winter. Liquid fertilizer can be utilized as well as natural manure pellets. Ficus trees will respond almost immediately to fertilizing with beautiful new growth.

Pruning:
Regular pruning is necessary to retain the tree’s shape. Prune back to two leaves after six to eight leaves have grown. The tree should only be pruned during the periods of active growth.

Propagation:
It can be easily propagated by seed (Growing ficus plants from seed in spring), by cutting, or by Air-layering (Air-layering will work best in April – May).

Pests and Diseases:
There is no serious pest or disease problems. There is no serious pest or disease problems. But sometimes, susceptible to spider mites or other critters, so maintaining a good feeding and watering routine is important to keep your tree healthy and immune.