VLoveof Nature

Chinese banyan

Ficus microcarpa

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Chinese banyan · Ficus microcarpa

Aerial roots and a gnarled trunk make it a classic bonsai subject.

Care and placement

Prefers bright indirect light (bonsai forms need strong light), water when the top 2–3 cm is dry with good drainage; 15–25 °C; dislikes being moved.

Draft mature dimensions

Maximum height (cm): 500 cm · Maximum spread (cm): 400 cm

Things to consider

Ficus latex contains ficin and psoralen: it irritates the gut and skin and ASPCA lists the genus as toxic to dogs, cats and horses. Wear gloves when pruning; keep from children and pets.

Unknown evidence does not mean safe. Decorative plants are not automatically edible.

Information is compiled from multiple reputable sources for reference. If you spot an error, please contact us so we can check and update it.

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How to grow and care for it

  1. Planting and pot

    Plant in a well-draining pot or bonsai tray with a loose, free-draining mix. Repot every 2–3 years in early spring with fresh mix.

  2. Light

    Bright indirect light; indoor and bonsai forms need strong light near a sunny window. Harsh direct sun scorches leaves.

  3. Watering

    Water when the top 2–3 cm is dry with good drainage. Soft yellow falling leaves mean overwatering or poor drainage; brittle falling leaves mean underwatering or too much wind.

  4. Feeding

    Balanced water-soluble fertilizer monthly (some sources every 2–4 weeks) in spring and summer, less in autumn and winter.

  5. Pruning

    Prune in spring or early summer: either continuously (remove 4–6 leaves for every 10 new) or heavily by season (cut branches back by a third to half). Shoots sprout from the trunk, so pruning mistakes are forgiving. Wear gloves.

  6. Propagation

    Stem cuttings or air layering; roots quickly in warm conditions. Take cuttings in spring and root them in water or clean mix.

  7. Pests and common problems

    Scale, thrips and spider mites; also mealybugs, aphids and psyllids that curl leaves. Treat consistently with neem oil or insecticidal soap; poor airflow indoors makes outbreaks worse.

  8. For plentiful, healthy leaves

    For a dense canopy and attractive aerial roots (bonsai): bright light, even watering, regular feeding in warm months and seasonal pruning; aerial roots grow from branches toward the soil giving an aged look. Outdoors it bears small figs.