Ficus Audrey Care Guide
If you're looking for a statement piece to add greenery and life to your home or office, the Ficus Audrey (Ficus benghalensis) is a fantastic option. Known for its large, soft green leaves with light veining and its resilience, this plant is both striking and relatively easy to care for once you understand its preferences.
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Names | ZZ Plant, Zanzibar Gem, Eternity Plant |
| Scientific Name | Zamioculcas zamiifolia |
| Family | Araceae |
| Plant Type | Tropical perennial |
| Size | 2- to 4-feet tall and wide |
| Sunlight Needs | Bright to low indirect light |
| Origin | Eastern Africa |
| Soil Type | Well-draining |
| Soil pH | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| Hardiness Zones | USDA 9 to 10 |
| Bloom Time | Spring |
| Flower Color | Yellow-brown spadix |
| Toxicity | Toxic to people and pets |
Light Requirements
Ficus Audrey loves bright, indirect light. Place it near a large window where it can soak in plenty of natural light, but avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves. East- or west-facing windows work well, though it can also adapt to filtered sunlight from a south-facing window. You can train your Audrey to tolerate medium light by slowly reducing the sun exposure.
Watering Schedule
One of the most important aspects of Ficus Audrey care is striking the right balance with watering. It prefers to have its soil slightly moist, but not waterlogged. Here’s how to manage it:
Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry to the touch.
Ensure that the pot has good drainage to avoid soggy soil, which can lead to root rot.
In the winter months, reduce watering slightly, as the plant's growth naturally slows down.
As a general rule, it's better to underwater than overwater.
Soil and Potting
For soil, Ficus Audrey prefers a well-draining, rich potting mix. You can use a standard houseplant mix, but it’s ideal to add perlite or coarse sand to improve aeration and drainage.
Fertilize during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Feed the plant once a month to promote healthy growth. Hold off on fertilizing during fall and winter, when the plant is less active.
These plants enjoy having a bit of room to grow. Repot your plant every two years, or when you notice that its roots are becoming cramped or growing out of the drainage holes. Choose a pot that’s 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one, and refresh the soil during the process.
Temperature and Humidity
Ficus Audrey thrives in moderate to high humidity. If you live in a dry environment or notice the leaves browning or curling, consider using a humidifier or placing the plant on a tray of pebbles with water to boost the humidity around it.
For temperature, keep the plant in a room that stays between 65°F and 75°F (18°C-24°C). Be mindful of drafts or sudden temperature changes, as this can stress the plant.
Pruning and Maintenance
While the Ficus Audrey doesn’t require heavy pruning, occasional trimming can help maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. If the plant becomes too tall or leggy, prune the top stems to promote branching.
Remove any dead or yellowing leaves to keep the plant looking tidy and healthy.
Regularly dust the leaves with a damp cloth, as dust buildup can hinder photosynthesis.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Leaf Drop: Ficus plants are notorious for dropping leaves when stressed. If you notice sudden leaf drop, it may be due to a change in environment (such as moving the plant) or a watering issue. Check your watering routine and light conditions.
Yellow Leaves: Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering. Make sure the soil isn’t too wet and allow the top few inches to dry out between waterings.
Pests: Keep an eye out for common pests like spider mites and scale. If you spot them, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and keep it isolated from other plants until the issue is resolved.
The Ficus Audrey is a wonderful addition to any indoor plant collection, thanks to its elegant, understated beauty and relatively easy care needs. By providing the right balance of light, water, and humidity, and giving it occasional attention with pruning and fertilization, your Ficus Audrey can thrive for years to come.
Looking for more plant care tips or interested in adding a Ficus Audrey to your collection? Contact us for expert plant advice and design services tailored to your space.