A Description of the Benjamin Fig Plant

Also known as weeping fig or small-leaved rubber plant, the Benjamin fig plant (Ficus benjamina) is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to Asia that is often cultivated as an ornamental house plant.

Foliage

Benjamin fig produces glossy alternating evergreen leaves. Leaves often drop due to cultural stress such as temperature change or irregular watering. The plant produces fleshy fruits that gradually change from green to orange, red and then a purplish black.

Branches

The plant has thin branches that form a drooping, weeping habit. When young, Benjamin fig branches are quite flexible. Some gardeners braid or knot multiple fig plants together to create a decorative, corkscrew-like trunk. Benjamin fig may be pruned to give it a more treelike appearance.

Warning

The sap from the Benjamin fig plant's foliage and branches may cause allergies and dermatitis in some individuals, resulting in itching eyes, cough and skin irritation. Symptoms usually are short lived.

References

• Extension Horticulture: Weeping Fig, Ficus benjamina
• North Carolina State University: Poisonous Plants: Ficus Benjamina