Weeping Fig, Java Fig, Benjamin Fig – Ficus benjamina

General Landscape Uses: Formal hedge, privacy screen Ecological Restoration Notes: Avoid because it is invasive. Description: A broad-leaved evergreen tree with a graceful, drooping (weeping) habit. The bark is light gray and smooth, and the leaves are glossy, oval, and end in a distinctive “drip tip.” The stems contain a milky white latex sap. Dimensions: Height 40 – 60 ft.; Spread 60 – 100 ft. Growth Rate: Fast Native Range: Southeast Asia and Australia Native Habitats: Tropical rainforests and humid woodlands Soils: Well-drained, sand, loam, clay Nutritional Requirements: Moderate Salt Water Tolerance: Low Salt Wind Tolerance: Moderate Drought Tolerance: High Light Requirements: Full sun to shade Flower Color: Inconspicuous Flower Characteristics: Flowers are hidden inside the fruit. Flowering Season: All year Fruit: Small (0.5 inch), globose figs that turn from green to orange or red-purple when ripe. Wildlife and Ecology: The fruit is a significant food source for birds and bats, which spread the seeds into native hammocks. In its native range, it has a symbiotic relationship with fig wasps. Horticultural Notes: Propagated by cuttings, air layering, seed Comments: The tree is famous for “dropping leaves” whenever it is moved or environmental conditions change. This is a survival mechanism, not necessarily a sign of death. Warning: The milky sap is a skin irritant and can be toxic to pets if ingested.