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Bengal Fig
BeginnerFicus benghalensis
Popular interior plant with white trunk and large rounded leaves. Similar to Ficus umbellata but with thicker leaves and stronger presence. Vigorous in bright spots.
About
Ficus benghalensis, the Indian banyan, is an evergreen tree in the family Moraceae native to India and Pakistan and the national tree of India. In the wild it becomes a vast tree that drops numerous aerial roots and spreads enormously. As a houseplant it is prized for its pale trunk and large, thick, rounded leaves with attractive venation, making it a popular interior plant. It resembles the related Ficus umbellata but has thicker leaves and a calmer presence. It prefers a bright, sunny position and grows vigorously with enough light. Fairly tolerant of direct sun, though it may drop leaves after a sudden change of environment. Water thoroughly once the soil surface dries, avoiding root rot from overwatering. Its sap can irritate skin, so wear gloves when pruning.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Bengal Fig
The Bengal Fig lives 20+ years.
Size of the Bengal Fig
The Bengal Fig grows to 50cm-3m (indoors).
Temperature & humidity for the Bengal Fig
The ideal temperature for the Bengal Fig is 15〜30℃.
Basic Info
Origin
India and Pakistan
Lifespan
20+ years
Size
50cm-3m (indoors)
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Watering & Fertilizer
Liquid fertilizer twice monthly spring-fall
Growing Tips
Placement
Sunny windowsill ideal. Shade tolerant but will stretch
Watering
Water thoroughly when topsoil dries. Reduce in winter
Temperature & Overwintering
Ideal range is 15-30°C. Sudden changes can cause leaf drop, so keep it in one warm indoor spot in winter and avoid moving it often.
Fertilizer
Feed liquid fertilizer twice a month from spring to autumn. It grows vigorously with enough light, so pair feeding with good light.
Soil & Repotting
Plant in a well-draining mix and watch for root rot from overwatering. Repot one size up when it becomes rootbound.
Pruning
Spring pruning promotes side shoots. Watch for white sap
Bengal Fig FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Bengal Fig?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Bengal Fig?
The ideal temperature for Bengal Fig is 15〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Bengal Fig?
The average lifespan of Bengal Fig is 20+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Bengal Fig get?
The mature size of Bengal Fig is 50cm-3m (indoors). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Bengal Fig?
Bengal Fig: watering & fertilizer — Liquid fertilizer twice monthly spring-fall. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Bengal Fig?
The price of Bengal Fig varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 10–12
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Foliage plant. Confirmed by document review to be non-applicable to CITES Appendix (Flora), designated invasive species, or designated animals (the genus does not appear in the CITES flora section; Dracaena spp. listings in CITES refer to a reptile genus of the same name; the plant Dracaena is not applicable).
Sources: CITES Appendices I/II/III (flora section, grepped via dbca mirror) / CITES Appendices (official) / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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