Ficus benghalensis 'Audrey'
Base species native to Indian Subcontinent
Ficus benghalensis was named by Carl Linnaeus in 1753, from the Sanskrit 'vata' tree. The species is native across the Indian subcontinent and is deeply embedded in Hindu and Buddhist cultural symbolism. 'Audrey' is a proprietary nursery cultivar selection, likely developed in recent decades for the indoor plant trade, selected for compact growth and appealing foliage.
Ficus Audrey thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers to dry out slightly between waterings — overwatering is the most common cause of leaf drop. Provide high humidity and stable temperatures; it dislikes sudden changes in light or location. Prune regularly to maintain a tidy shape and encourage bushier growth.
Standard potting mix (40% peat or coco coir, 40% perlite, 20% orchid bark) with good drainage. Repot in spring every 2–3 years when roots become root-bound. Prefers slightly snug conditions but will stall if severely pot-bound.
Monthly during growing season (spring–summer)
- Leaf drop from sudden light changes, cold drafts, or overwatering; spider mites in low humidity; scale insects; leggy growth in insufficient light.
- Ficus benghalensis is the national tree of India and can live for centuries in the wild, with aerial roots that develop into secondary trunks — entire 'forests' can arise from a single tree.
- The 'Audrey' cultivar is a modern selection chosen for its compact, bushy habit and attractive oval leaves, making it more manageable as a houseplant than the sprawling wild type.
- Ficus sap was historically used in folk medicine and as a natural rubber source before synthetic alternatives became dominant.