Houseplant of the month: Large-leaved Ficus

Looking for a green houseplant that is not very demanding and grows quickly? The large-leaved Ficus offers a lot of beauty in exchange for occasional sips of water. Whilst Ficus are well known for strong indoor trees with lots of little leaves, they are also available with large leaves, giving the plant a robust look.

About the large-leaved Ficus

Ficus is the Latin name for the fig. Large-leaved Ficus is a member of the mulberry family and grows in (sub-)tropical regions, mainly in Asia and Africa, but also in South America and Australia. Its leaves absorb particulates of air and store this in their roots where they are broken down and expelled. The leaves do not only help in purifying the air, they also keep the indoor humidity in balance. This makes it not only a beautiful plant to see, but it’s also a real asset for a healthier indoor climate.

Make a statement

The Ficus has a darker trunk and with its large and striking leaves, the plant looks at its best against a light background. The ficus can tolerate both a light or partial shade spot, though shouldn’t be receiving full sun. Further care tips:

• Make sure that the soil is slightly damped at all times. They can cope with less water during the winter
• The large-leaved Ficus enjoys plant feed every two weeks
• A quick rain shower will enhance both the plant and its leaves
• If the plant is in danger of growing crooked, turn it a quarter turn every day
• Treat the plant to a larger pot and fresh potting soil once a year to maintain its growth and for a large-leaved Ficus in top condition

Large-leaved Ficuses

• Ficus Lyrata: available as indoor bush and standard tree, with shiny leaves that resemble a violin. The large, eye-catching veins that bring texture to the leaves particularly stand out.
• Ficus Elastica: has smooth dark green leaves with fine veins that are marked like a feather and reach a length of around 25 cm. It grows straight up and therefore doesn’t take up a lot of space, despite the large leaves.  
• Ficus Binnendijkii: ‘Alii’ / ‘Amstel King’ mainly have long large leaves that are not wide, but do hang down decoratively. Available as a green pillar and as a standard with a full crown.
• Ficus Cyathistipula: has dark green shiny leaves, can produce figs from an early age, and is heavily branched potential indoor giant that climbs upwards along a stake and therefore grows attractively upright.