Audrey Ficus

Size

The Audrey Ficus is as easygoing and lovely as houseplants come. While some members of the Ficus family have a reputation for being challenging, thats not Audrey. Also known as Ficus elastica, Variegated Rubber tree, banyan tree, or Ficus Elastica Audrey, this Ficus has a tree-like stature and boasts large, thick, oblong leaves in a bright-green hue with pronounced yellow midribs and veining. Known as the national tree of India, this ficus develops aerial roots in its natural habitat, adding to its distinctive character. With a growth habit similar to the fiddle leaf fig but easier to maintain, the Audrey Ficus is a striking addition to your home or office.Best Locations For Growing Audrey FicusThis plant thrives in bright or medium indirect light, making it ideal for well-lit spaces like living rooms, bedrooms, and offices. Avoid placing it in direct afternoon sun, which can scorch its leaves. Typical household humidity levels are sufficient, but kitchens and bathrooms with higher humidity levels are excellent choices for this tropical tree. Once you find a good location for Audrey, try not to move her. Plants that are acclimated to an area will thrive and can proliferate. Keep it out of reach of pets and children, as it is toxic if ingested.Audrey Ficus Sunlight RequirementsA south- or west-facing window usually is best for the Audrey Ficus. This houseplant needs several hours of bright indirect light to thrive. Too little light and the plant will struggle. Direct sunlight, especially for an extended time, may burn the leaves. Rotate the plant periodically to encourage even growth and prevent leaning.Audrey Ficus CarePlant the Audrey Ficus in well-draining indoor potting soil, ideally enriched with perlite and sand to promote aeration. Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Repot every 23 years in spring or summer, using a pot 23 inches larger if the roots are outgrowing their current container. If you prefer to limit its growth, refresh the soil without increasing the pot size, and prune back the roots slightly.Regular pruning during the active growing season helps control the plants size and shape while encouraging branching. Use sharp, sterilized pruning shears to remove leggy or lopsided growth. Periodically wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth. Dust buildup on the foliage can prevent this plant from conducting photosynthesis. Avoid chemical cleaners, which can damage the delicate fuzz that naturally forms on the leaves, and simply wipe them off using a wet cloth.Watering Audrey FicusThe Audrey Ficus has medium water needs. Feel the soil to determine the dryness level, and only water when the top few inches of soil dry out. Do not let the soil completely dry out because this beauty needs consistent dampness. Drench the soil when the plant needs a drink and remove excess water that collects in the tray or cache pot. Average household humidity is acceptable, but be ready with a humidifier or pebble tray if the foliage starts to dry along the edges.Feeding Audrey FicusFertilize monthly during the growing season (spring through early fall) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. This supports healthy leaf and branch development. Avoid fertilizing during late fall and winter, as the plant enters dormancy. For additional soil enrichment, consider incorporating compost or worm castings during repotting.

Audrey Ficus InformationLight Exposure: Bright Indirect LightCare Requirements: EasyWatering Requirements: Average - When the top 2 inches of the soil dries out.

Pet Friendly: NoKid Friendly: NoAir Purifier: LowHabit: ClumpingGrowth Rate: Moderate to FastMature Height: 10 feetMature Spread: 3-4 feetFlowering: YesFlower Color(s): WhiteFlower Shade/Des