Ficus Obtusifolia

Description

Ficus Obtusifolia, also known as the “Ginseng Ficus,” is a popular houseplant known for its large, glossy leaves and ease of care. It is native to Southeast Asia and is often grown as a bonsai tree due to its small size and attractive trunk. The plant can grow up to 3-6 feet tall and has a spread of 2-3 feet. Its leaves are oval-shaped and can grow up to 4 inches long.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Ficus Obtusifolia has large, glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and can grow up to 4 inches long. The plant has a thick, woody trunk that can be braided or twisted to create interesting shapes. It has a compact growth habit and can grow up to 3-6 feet tall with a spread of 2-3 feet. The plant’s leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and have a leathery texture.

Care Guide

Ficus Obtusifolia is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

Water

Ficus Obtusifolia prefers to be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry, and be sure to use room-temperature water. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilization

Ficus Obtusifolia benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks.

Soil

Ficus Obtusifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal.

Sunlight

Ficus Obtusifolia prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but avoid placing the plant in full sun, as this can scorch the leaves.

Hardiness Zones

Ficus Obtusifolia is not cold-hardy and should be kept indoors in all but the warmest climates.

Common Pests & Diseases

Ficus Obtusifolia is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:

Spider Mites

Spider mites are a common pest that can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Scale Insects

Scale insects can cause yellowing and dropping of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Root Rot

Root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or if the soil does not drain properly. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and dropping of the leaves. To prevent root rot, be sure to water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry and ensure that the soil is well-draining.

Habitat

Ficus Obtusifolia is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers high humidity and warm temperatures and can be grown indoors in all but the warmest climates.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Ficus Obtusifolia?

A: Water your Ficus Obtusifolia when the top inch of soil is dry. Be sure to use room-temperature water, and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.

Q: Can Ficus Obtusifolia tolerate direct sunlight?

A: Ficus Obtusifolia prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in full sun, as this can scorch the leaves.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Ficus Obtusifolia?

A: Ficus Obtusifolia benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks.

Q: How do I propagate Ficus Obtusifolia?

A: Ficus Obtusifolia can be propagated from stem cuttings. Take a cutting that is 4-6 inches long and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in well-draining soil. Keep the soil evenly moist and place the cutting in bright, indirect light. Roots should form in 4-6 weeks.

Related Plants

• Ficus Benjamina
• Ficus Elastica
• Ficus Lyrata
• Ficus Microcarpa

References

• https://www.thespruce.com/ficus-obtusifolia-care-1902770
• https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/ficus-ginseng/growing-ginseng-ficus-houseplants.htm
• https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/ficus/ficus-tree-care.htm