Ficus benjamina 'Golden King' - Weeping Fig

Covered in glossy, variegated foliage, this indoor tree brings the woodland vibe indoors. Each branch extends from its central trunk robed with lush greenery. The leaves are oval shapes, ending in an elegant point, and their mid-green colour is highlighted by white variegation around the edge of each leaf. It's often said to be good at filtering the air, but we're still waiting on studies to show this conclusively in household environments - for now, all we can guarantee is that greenery in your home will make it look and feel fantastic. To keep your tree happy, make sure it gets plenty of bright light without being in harsh midday sun, and just has time for the top couple of inches of soil to dry between waters. 

Scientific Name
Ficus benjamina 'Golden King' (Benjamin's fig, cultivar: golden king)

Synonyms: Urostigma benjaminum, Ficus benjaminoides, Ficus striata, Urostigma nitidum, Ficus neglecta (amongst others - a lot of specimens have been given different scientific names and then found to be this species)

The current name was first published in 1767, and despite other names cropping up in the interim, it has remained accepted.

Common Name
Weeping Fig, Variegated Weeping Fig, Benjamin Fig, Golden King Ficus, Benjamin Tree, Java Fig, Small-Leaved Rubber Plant

Origin
Native to Asia and Australasia, found in India, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Southern China, Laos, Nepal, Thailand, Taiwan, Myanmar, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, New Guinea, the Philippines, and Northeast Australia.

Light
In spring and summer, your Ficus needs bright but indirect light; the stronger sun of this time of year can scorch its leaves. In autumn and winter, give it a couple of hours of direct sun; this time of year it is weak enough, and it will help it cope with winter dormancy.

Water
Let the top third of the soil dry between waters; water less in autumn and winter. Water with lukewarm water to avoid shocking the plant.

Humidity
This plant is used to humid environments, so if you notice its leaves going brown and crispy, it might be too dry. Keep this plant away from operating heaters and, if needed, use a pebble tray to increase local humidity around the plant.

Soil
Use a mix that retains moisture well; components like coir, perlite and bark will ensure this, and adding some sand and zeolite will help extra water to drain away. A mix designed for Ficus plants will work well here. Repot every 2-4 years in spring as the plant grows.

Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter.

Temperature
Ideal temperature is 18-26°C; make sure it does not get colder than 12°C in winter.

Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.

Sprouts Top Tips
When they aren't happy, weeping figs can be prone to dropping their leaves. There are a few reasons this could happen, though, so it's important not to misunderstand:
If you've just bought it, your plant may just be distressed at moving; give it time to get used to its new surroundings.
If it's somewhere very shady, try moving it somewhere brighter; in darker locations your plant will get upset and drop leaves. Make sure you can comfortably read by the natural light around your plant.
Finally, make sure you aren't leaving the plant sat in soggy soil; it can rot if it's left wet, preferring slightly damp soil and for the top to dry out before you water it again.