Find out how to care for the beautiful Ficus benghalensis ‘Audrey,’ which is commonly known in its native habitat as the banyan tree. Discover what kind of watering, lighting, fertilizing, humidity and more the plant requires to grow happy and healthy in your indoor garden. See care time stamps below.
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Welcome to HealthyHouseplants.com, your source for expert guidance on indoor gardening. In today’s video, we explore how to care for the Ficus Audrey (botanical name Ficus benghalensis), also known as the Banyan Tree and recognized as the national tree of India.
Indoors, this plant is a moderate grower and typically reaches about 10 feet tall and 3 feet wide over several years. While it won’t grow as massive as it does outdoors, it’s still a show-stopping specimen.
A relative of the Fiddle Leaf Fig, Ficus Audrey is easier to care for. Its leaves are slightly fuzzy and oblong, and its trunk is lighter in color.
Lighting: Ficus Audrey thrives in bright, indirect light—such as near east, south, or west-facing windows. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch the leaves. If natural light is limited, full-spectrum grow lights work well.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Allow the top 2–3 inches of soil to dry before watering again. Dropping or yellowing leaves can be signs of over- or under-watering.
Humidity: Native to warm, humid climates, Ficus Audrey prefers humidity levels of 45% or more. Use misting, humidifiers, humidity trays, or group it with other plants to boost local humidity.
Temperature: Ideal temperatures range between 65°F and 85°F. Keep it away from cold drafts, heating, or air conditioning vents.
Fertilizing: Fertilize monthly in the active growing season (spring to early fall) with a low NPK organic fertilizer (e.g., 5-5-5). Supplement with worm castings, alfalfa meal, and mulch to improve soil health.
Pruning: Prune in spring or late winter to control size and encourage branching. Don’t remove more than 1/3 of the plant at a time. Wear gloves to avoid contact with the latex sap.
Repotting: Repot every 2–3 years or when roots emerge from drainage holes. Use a well-draining, moisture-retentive mix with perlite/pumice and peat or coir.
Pest Control: Watch for sap-sucking pests like mealybugs and scale. Treat infestations with neem oil, applying several times over a few weeks.
Leaf Care: Clean leaves regularly to remove dust and maintain plant health and appearance.
Ficus Audrey Care FAQ
What is the botanical name of Ficus Audrey?
The botanical name of Ficus Audrey is Ficus benghalensis, also known as the Banyan Tree and the national tree of India.
How much light does Ficus Audrey need?
Ficus Audrey requires several hours of bright, indirect light daily. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight to prevent sunburn on the leaves.
How often should I water Ficus Audrey?
Water when the top 2–3 inches of soil dry out. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy to avoid leaf drop or yellowing.
What humidity level is best for Ficus Audrey?
This plant thrives in 45% humidity or higher. Use misting, humidity trays, or group plants together to maintain adequate moisture.
What temperature does Ficus Audrey prefer?
Ideal temperature ranges are 65°F to 85°F. Avoid exposure to drafts and heating or cooling vents to keep your plant healthy.
How should I fertilize Ficus Audrey?
Fertilize monthly from early spring to early fall with a low NPK organic fertilizer. Add worm castings, alfalfa meal, or mulch for extra nutrients.
When and how should I prune Ficus Audrey?
Prune in spring or late winter to shape the plant or control its size. Remove no more than one-third at a time and avoid sap contact.
When should I repot Ficus Audrey?
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots emerge from the drainage holes. Use a mix that retains moisture but drains well.
What pests affect Ficus Audrey and how do I treat them?
Common pests include mealybugs and scale. Treat with neem oil and repeat weekly for a few weeks to fully eliminate infestations.
How do I keep Ficus Audrey leaves clean?
Wipe the leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and maintain healthy, vibrant foliage.
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