Ficus Benjamina Disease

Weeping figs (Ficus benjamina) are large shrubs or small trees that range between 6- and 18-feet tall with a 2- to 10-foot spread. They are often cultivated as indoor foliage. Weeping figs are susceptible to several diseases.

Types

The Xanthomonas campestris bacterium causes bacterial leaf spot in weeping figs. The Agrobacterium tumefaciens bacterium causes crown gall. The Corynespora cassiicola fungus causes Corynespora leaf spot, while the Phomopsis fungus causes branch dieback.

Effects

Weeping figs with bacterial leaf spot have yellowish spots between the veins. Infected leaves fall from the plant. Crown gall infections are characterized by abnormal growths called galls that form on the roots, stems and foliage. Corynespora leaf spot creates reddish spots on young leaves. Plants with phomopsis infections have diseased black wood beneath the bark; leaves and branches die.

Prevention/Solution

Prevent bacterial leaf spot infections by watering plants from the ground rather than from above, as well as by purchasing disease-free plants. Copper-based fungicides also prevent plants from becoming infected. There is no cure for crown gall as of 2010. Infected plants should be destroyed. Watering plants from below and by applying the recommended amount of fertilizer helps to prevent corynespora. Avoid phomopsis infections by keeping plants free from injuries and by maintaining moisture levels in the soil.

References

• University of Vermont: Ficus Benjamina
• University of Florida: Ficus Production Guide
• Pennsylvania State University: Ficus Diseases