180 - 220cm XXL Ficus Nitida 50cm Pot House Plant

🌳 Ficus microcarpa 'Nitida' — Indian Laurel Fig / Ficus nitida

Ficus microcarpa 'Nitida', commonly referred to as Ficus nitida or the Indian Laurel Fig, is a robust and elegant evergreen tree known for its glossy green foliage, dense canopy, and architectural form. A close relative of the weeping fig (Ficus benjamina), this cultivar is favoured for its more upright growth habit, broader leaves, and greater tolerance of pruning and environmental variation. Native to South and Southeast Asia, Ficus nitida is widely used as a shade tree in warm climates and as a refined ornamental plant indoors. Its compact foliage, smooth grey bark, and symmetrical structure make it a sophisticated choice for contemporary interiors, bright offices, and patios. With the ability to be pruned into a topiary, standard tree, or kept bushy and shrubby, Ficus nitida is a versatile and long-lasting addition to any collection. It also offers excellent air-purifying benefits and a low-maintenance care routine when its needs are consistently met.

☀️ Light Requirements

• Indoors: Thrives in bright, indirect light. Tolerates some direct morning or late afternoon sun.

• Outdoors (mild climates): Prefers full sun to partial shade.

• Low light: Can lead to leggy growth and leaf drop.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Ideal temperature: 18–27°C (65–80°F)

• Minimum temperature: Keep above 10°C (50°F); not frost-hardy

• Humidity: Tolerates average indoor humidity but prefers slightly higher humidity. Occasional misting is beneficial in dry rooms.

💧 Watering Needs

• Watering frequency: Water when the top 3–5 cm of soil is dry. Avoid letting the soil stay constantly wet or bone dry.

• Tip: Let the plant slightly dry between waterings but avoid extremes.

• Signs of overwatering: Yellowing leaves and soggy soil.

• Signs of underwatering: Drooping or crispy leaves.

🪴 Soil & Repotting

• Soil type: Well-draining indoor plant compost. A blend of loam, perlite, and bark improves aeration.

• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

• Repotting: Every 2–3 years, or when rootbound. Repot in spring for best results.

🌱 Feeding

• Growing season (spring–summer): Feed monthly with a balanced liquid fertiliser.

• Autumn–winter: Feeding can be reduced or paused if the plant is not actively growing.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Pruning: Tolerates heavy pruning — ideal for shaping or maintaining as a topiary, standard, or compact shrub.

• Leaf care: Wipe with a damp cloth to remove dust and allow for proper respiration.

• Growth tip: Regular pruning encourages denser foliage and stronger branching.

🌾 Propagation

• Stem cuttings: Take semi-hardwood cuttings in spring or early summer. Root in water or moist compost.

• Air layering: Suitable for mature specimens where you wish to create a new plant from a section.

🐛 Pests & Problems

• Common pests: Scale, mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites.

• Symptoms: Sticky residue, yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or fine webbing.

• Treatment: Wipe down foliage, increase humidity, and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed.

• Common issues:

  • Sudden leaf drop: Often caused by relocation, low light, or changes in watering.

  • Brown leaf tips: Typically a sign of dry air or inconsistent watering.

🧤 Toxicity & Safety

• Toxicity: Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested. May cause digestive discomfort.

• Sap caution: Sap can be irritating to skin and eyes — wear gloves when pruning.

🏡 Indoor Care Highlights

• Ideal for structured indoor greenery — suits modern, formal, or minimalist design schemes.

• Makes a striking indoor tree for living rooms, lobbies, hallways, or covered patios.

• Can be trained into multi-stemmed trees, standards, or bushy forms to suit your space.

• Air-purifying and low-maintenance once established.

• Pairs well with palms, ficus varieties, and broad-leaved tropicals for layered indoor displays.