The Banyan Fig Tree (Ficus benghalensis) is an iconic tropical tree revered for its massive canopy and distinctive aerial roots. Known as the East Indian Fig Tree, it is native to the Indian subcontinent and is one of the most fascinating and long-living fig species in the world.
When grown indoors, the Banyan makes a unique houseplant with lush, evergreen foliage and visible root formations that give it a sculptural, exotic appearance. Outdoors, in warm climates, it can mature into a large shade tree, spreading widely with multiple trunks formed from aerial roots descending into the soil.
🌴 Features
- 🌳 Iconic Tropical Tree: Famous for its spreading canopy and aerial roots.
- 🌿 Versatile Growth: Can be cultivated as an indoor bonsai, houseplant, or outdoor tree.
- 🌞 Evergreen Foliage: Dense green leaves add year-round beauty.
- 🪴 Adaptable: Thrives in pots, gardens, and tropical landscapes.
- 🌱 Non-GMO Seeds: Naturally sourced and suitable for organic cultivation.
📋 Specifications
- Common Name: Banyan Fig Tree, East Indian Fig Tree
- Scientific Name: Ficus benghalensis
- Plant Type: Evergreen tree or indoor houseplant
- USDA Zones: 10 – 12 (outdoor); can be grown indoors anywhere
- Mature Height (outdoor): Up to 60–100 ft (18–30 m)
- Indoor Height: 4–10 ft (depending on pruning)
- Spread: Wide canopy outdoors; compact indoors
- Foliage: Large, glossy green leaves
- Sunlight: Full sun to bright indirect light
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil
- Soil pH: 6.0 – 7.5
- Water Needs: Moderate; prefers consistently moist soil
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
- Lifespan: Perennial
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
🌿 Planting Guide
- Seed Preparation: Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before sowing.
- Sowing Depth: Lightly press seeds onto moist soil; do not cover completely.
- Germination Temperature: 75–85°F (24–29°C).
- Germination Time: 2–4 weeks.
- Light Conditions: Bright, indirect sunlight or filtered outdoor light.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged.
- Transplanting: Move to a larger pot or outdoor area once seedlings are 4–6 inches tall.
🌳 Care Tips
- Indoors: Place near a bright window with indirect sunlight.
- Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity; mist occasionally.
- Pruning: Regular pruning helps control size and encourages branching.
- Outdoor Care: Suitable for frost-free climates with warm temperatures.
- Feeding: Apply balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.
