Plant guide
フィカス・ベンガレンシス
Watering rhythm
Every 5–10 days
The Bengal Fig is a native Indian Ficus known for its deep green, oval-shaped leaves and impressive thick trunk. It grows into a striking houseplant that commands attention in any room, and its slow growth rate and hardy nature make it perfect for beginners.
Bright indirect light is ideal—avoid direct sun. It thrives in temperatures between 20–28°C and stops growing if it drops below 15°C. Aim for humidity around 50–70% and place it somewhere with good air circulation.
Light and temperature change a plant's metabolism, so the ideal cadence shifts with the seasons.
Spring
Every 5–8 days
Summer
Every 5–8 days
Autumn
Every 7–10 days
Winter
Every 10–14 days
Water when the soil surface feels dry, and water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom of the pot. Always empty the saucer afterward to prevent waterlogging. Misting the leaves is also beneficial—it removes dust and keeps the plant healthy. Be careful not to overwater, as this is the quickest path to root rot.
Quick lookup from symptom to likely cause and action.
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Leaves turning yellow and dropping | Overwatering is causing root rot, or the plant is in a cold environment where it can't grow properly. | Check if the soil is too wet and dial back your watering. Try moving it somewhere warmer and brighter. |
| Leaves thinning and growth stopping | The plant isn't getting enough light. Keeping it in a dim spot indoors will gradually weaken it. | Move it to a brighter location—a spot by a window with indirect light is perfect. You should see improvement within a few weeks. |
| White, cotton-like substance on the backs of leaves | Mealybugs have infested the plant. If left untreated, they'll multiply. | Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove the insects. Keep checking regularly, and consider using an insecticide if they return. |
| Leaf tips turning brown | The air around the plant is too dry, or you may be using fertilizer that's too strong. | Mist the leaves more often to increase humidity. If you've been fertilizing, stop for now and see how it responds. |
| Stem becoming soft and mushy | Root rot has progressed and spread to affect the stem itself. | Remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Trim away any rotted parts and repot it in fresh soil. Keep watering minimal as it recovers. |
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