Esther E. McGinnis, Horticulturist

NDSU Extension

The National Garden Bureau designated 2026 as the “Year of the Ficus.” Your first thought might be the weeping fig (Ficus benjamina), the most commonly grown indoor ficus tree. Truth be told, the weeping fig can be persnickety, turning yellow and dropping its leaves. However, the Ficus genus encompasses many lesser-known species and cultivars that are easier to grow.

The rubber tree (Ficus elastica), with its shiny, oval-shaped leaves, is enjoying a resurgence. I am old enough to remember rubber trees being the trendy 1970s plant in the era of avocado-green appliances. New generations are rediscovering this beautiful tropical plant. Recent cultivars feature multicolored leaves with creamy margins, multiple shades of green on the interior, and red new growth.

To keep a rubber tree healthy, place it in bright, indirect light away from vents. In northern states, we can grow it in direct light in an east window. If you notice sunscald on the leaves, either move the plant towards the room’s interior or behind a sheer curtain in a south- or west-facing window. Water the plant thoroughly until water trickles out the pot’s bottom. Empty any water sitting in the saucer to prevent root rot. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry between waterings. To keep the plant looking sensational and healthy, wipe the dust off the glossy leaves.

In indoor environments, rubber tree has a tendency to grow vertically without branching. Encourage branching by pruning above a node in spring or summer.

Fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) is another popular ficus. With its violin-shaped leaves, it is like the fashion model of the houseplant world and graces the pages of many interior design magazines. From personal experience, this ficus requires an experienced plant parent. It is tough to grow in low-light environments and is finicky about watering. If you have struggled with fiddle leaf fig, give Ficus Audrey a try.  

Ficus Audrey (Ficus benghalensis) is more forgiving than fiddle leaf and less likely to drop its leaves. Audrey’s leaves look like a cross between those of rubber tree and fiddle leaf fig. The green oval leaves are shaped more like rubber trees’, and the white leaf veins are reminiscent of fiddle leaf fig. While Audrey is more tolerant of watering mistakes, it is best to adhere to the watering advice mentioned for rubber tree.

Finally, a word of advice for those struggling with weeping fig trees mentioned at the beginning of this article. Treat this common houseplant like a drama queen. Understanding that the tree doesn’t like change is the not-so-secret formula for being a successful ficus parent. If your tree is happy in its current location, don’t move it. Otherwise, it will throw a tantrum and drop its leaves. Try and maintain a consistently warm temperature. In the winter, add a room humidifier to boost humidity, keep your ficus away from drafts and don’t over-water.

All kidding aside, you can find a ficus tree to meet your needs and gardening level.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – Jan. 27, 2026

Source: Esther McGinnis, 701-231-7406, esther.mcginnis@ndsu.edu

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu