Ficus benjamina 'Variegata', also known as Variegated Weeping Fig or Variegated Benjamin Fig, is an elegant evergreen tree prized for its attractive variegated foliage and graceful weeping habit. This cultivar, belonging to the Moraceae family, is valued for its ornamental appeal and versatility, making it a popular choice for Australian gardens, landscapes, and indoor settings.

Height and Width

• Height: Typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 meters when grown indoors, but can reach greater heights in optimal outdoor conditions.
• Width: Spreads out to a width of about 1.5 to 2 meters, with a relatively compact growth habit.

Soil Type

• Soil Preference: 'Variegata' prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a loamy or sandy texture. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, but performs best in soil that is rich in organic matter.

Plant Description

• Foliage: The tree features glossy, elliptical leaves that are variegated with shades of green and creamy-white. The foliage has a distinctive marbled appearance, with irregular patterns and streaks of variegation that add visual interest and texture to the plant.
• Growth Habit: 'Variegata' has a weeping growth habit with cascading branches that arch gracefully downward. It typically forms a dense canopy with a rounded or umbrella-like shape, providing a striking silhouette and adding a touch of elegance to the landscape.

Flower Description

• Flowers: While Variegated Weeping Fig may produce small, inconspicuous flowers in optimal outdoor conditions, it is primarily grown for its ornamental foliage rather than its flowers. The flowers are typically not a significant feature of the plant's ornamental appeal.

Cultivation and Care

• Watering: Provide regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season, but avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, especially during the dormant season.
• Sunlight: 'Variegata' prefers bright, indirect light when grown indoors, as direct sunlight can scorch the delicate foliage. Outdoors, it thrives in partial shade to full sun, depending on the climate and local conditions.
• Temperature: Variegated Weeping Fig is well-suited to the Australian climate and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it may suffer damage from frost or extreme heat. Protect the plant from temperature extremes and provide shelter during cold snaps or heatwaves.
• Pruning: Prune as needed to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and control size. 'Variegata' responds well to pruning and can be trained into a more compact form or maintained as a standard or topiary specimen.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser formulated for indoor plants or ornamental trees every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and foliage coloration.

Additional Notes

• Pests and Diseases: Variegated Weeping Fig is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but may be susceptible to issues such as scale insects, spider mites, and fungal leaf spot in humid conditions. Monitor regularly and treat promptly if pests or diseases are detected.
• Uses: Ideal for use as a focal point or specimen tree in gardens, landscapes, and indoor settings. 'Variegata' adds year-round beauty with its attractive foliage and graceful growth habit, making it a versatile and popular choice for adding visual interest and elegance to outdoor and indoor spaces alike.

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