Ficus Yellow Gem

Ficus Yellow Gem Care

Ficus altissima 'Yellow Gem'

What is the plant

Get ready to meet the Ficus Yellow Gem, a plant that radiates beauty with its stunning yellow-green foliage and graceful growth. Whether you're an indoor plant enthusiast or simply looking to add a touch of elegance to your space, this remarkable plant is here to captivate your senses. Let's dive into some fascinating details about this gem of a plant.

Feast your eyes on the Ficus Yellow Gem, scientifically known as Ficus altissima 'Yellow Gem,' a sought-after cultivar that stands out for its mesmerizing yellow-green leaves, its main identification feature. These glossy beauties are the hallmark of this ficus variety, which hails from the enchanting lands of Southeast Asia and belongs to the Moraceae family. While it can tower up to an impressive 60 to 100 feet (18-30 meters) in its natural habitat, fear not — indoors, this gem will grow to a more manageable height of around 6 feet (1.8 meters). With its compact size, it's the perfect choice for those looking to bring nature's elegance into smaller spaces.

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Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

17°C - 23°C

Hardiness zone

9 - 11

Difficulty

Easy

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Strive to maintain even moisture levels in the soil, but be cautious not to go overboard with watering. A good rule of (green) thumb is to allow the top inch (2.5 cm) of the soil to slightly dry out before watering again. Typically, this means watering your plant once a week. However, keep a watchful eye during hot and dry spells, as you might need to water more frequently. Remember, always check the moisture level of the soil before reaching for that watering can to ensure you're not overhydrating your precious gem.
Pruning
Regularly trim away any dead, damaged, or excessively long branches to maintain their elegant shape and encourage healthy growth. If you want to promote bushier growth, don't hesitate to pinch off those new shoots. Remember, use clean and sharp pruning tools to minimize stress on the plant and prevent any unwelcome spread of diseases.
Fertilizer
The sweet spot for this cultivar ranges from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). This means it feels right at home in indoor spaces where the room temperature remains consistent. However, it's worth noting that this gem has a sensitive side when it comes to cold drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations. So, keep it away from doors and windows that may expose it to chilly gusts.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Sunlight
Yellow Gem thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Place it in a location where it can receive ample filtered light throughout the day. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. An ideal spot is near a window with sheer curtains or in a well-lit area of your home.
Soil
It desires a well-draining medium that strikes a delicate balance between retaining some moisture and allowing excess water to escape freely. Creating a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil will do the trick, providing your gem with the ideal environment to flourish.
Propagation
You can expand your collection by using stem cuttings. Start by selecting a healthy stem that measures around 4 to 6 inches (10-15 cm) in length. With sharp and sterilized pruning shears, make a clean cut just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving a few at the top, and gently place them into a container filled with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist, provide indirect light, and watch as new roots develop, bringing new Yellow Gems.

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Temperature
During the growing season (spring and summer), it appreciates a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks. Now, here's the important part—always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure you're using the right dilution and dosage.
Container
When selecting a container, keep in mind that it should provide ample room for the plant's roots to spread comfortably. Aim for a container that's about 1 to 2 inches (2.5-5 cm) wider than the root ball, ensuring that your gem has enough space to thrive. Additionally, it's crucial to opt for a container with drainage holes at the bottom. This simple yet essential feature prevents waterlogging, which can have detrimental effects on your plant's health and happiness.
Fun fact
Here's an interesting tidbit about our vibrant friend — the Ficus Yellow Gem is sometimes affectionately referred to as the Golden Rubber Plant. The name 'Rubber Plant' encompasses all species within the Ficus genus, while 'Golden' is a nod to the captivating color of its leaves that gave rise to its poetic name, 'Yellow Gem.'