Narrow Leaf Fig

Narrow Leaf Fig Care

Ficus longifolia

What is the plant

Glossy, attractive, and decorative are the words that first spring to mind when it comes to Ficus longifolia. This tall, narrow-leaved plant visually resembles Eucalyptus and adds a touch of freshness to any space.

Commonly known as Narrow Leaf Fig or Ficus binnendijkii 'Alii', Ficus longifolia is a member of the Moraceae family. Native to the tropical forests of Brazil, this plant serves as a popular choice for decoration of indoor and outdoor spaces. This plant can reach up to 50 feet (9 m) in height in its natural environment. Narrow Leaf Fig is cherished for its decorative appearance. The deep green foliage has an elongated ovate shape and is the plant’s distinctive feature. It can grow 8 in (20 cm) long and reach 1.5 in (4 cm) wide. The young plant’s trunks can be braided for decorative purposes.

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Humidity

High

Lighting

Shade

Temperature

17°C - 27°C

Hardiness zone

8 - 10

Difficulty

Easy

How to Care for the Plant

Water
It’s best to water this plant once a week. Let half of the soil dry out before giving the plant a drink. Ficus binnendijkii 'Alii' will also benefit from regular misting, as it’s native to tropical rainforests with higher humidity levels.
Pruning
Pruning is a good way to maintain the plant’s shape. Cut the desired branches under the node in spring with a sterile pruning tool.
Fertilizer
Narrow Leaf Fig is a heavy feeder that requires regular nourishment during the spring-summer growing season. Dilute 3-1-2 NPK fertilizer to the half-recommended dose and feed the plant every two weeks. Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Disease diagnosis

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Sunlight
Narrow Leaf Fig feels best in a bright place with indirect sunlight. Make sure the plant is not exposed to direct sun, as it can scorch leaves.
Soil
Grow Ficus longifolia in a neutral soil with 6.5-7 pH level. This plant enjoys a well-draining, fertile growing medium. Mixing some sand or perlite into the soil is a good way to improve drainage.
Propagation
Stem cutting is the most popular way to propagate Ficus longifolia. Take a 5 in (12 cm) cutting from the current year’s growth and dip the cut end into the rooting hormone powder. Remember to cut under the node. Place the cutting into a well-draining potting mix and water it regularly to let the new plant establish in a new environment.

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Temperature
A mild temperature of 65-85°F (18-30°C) is what Ficus binnendijkii 'Alii' enjoys. Keep the plant away from cold drafts and air vents to avoid severe temperature fluctuations.
Container
Growing Narrow Leaf Fig in a container, choose a large enough pot, as the plant becomes rootbound. The pot should be at least two times larger than the current root ball. It’s important to use a container with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Fun fact
Apart from the decorative properties, Ficus longifolia has air-purifying activities. It absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen as a result of photosynthesis.

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Popularity
16 people already have this plant 4 people have added this plant to their wishlists

Common pests
Scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites are the most common pets attacking Ficus longifolia. In case of pest infestation, treat the plant with an insecticide.
Frequent diseases
Ficus longifolia can fall victim to fungal leaf spot, anthracnose, and branch dieback. These issues are often caused by fungal pathogens. If the tree shows fungal disease infection signs, remove the damaged parts with a sterile pruning tool and treat the plant with a fungicide.
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