Ficus Umbellata Care

The Ficus Umbellata is one of the most special members of the Ficus family, thanks to its large, round to heart-shaped leaves in a fresh light green colour. This freshly delivered houseplant is hugely popular, but does need a bit more attention than the average houseplant. In this article you'll find everything about location, watering, feeding, soil, pruning, propagation and the most common problems.

Best location for the Ficus Umbellata

The Ficus Umbellata likes a spot with plenty of normal daylight, but not in scorching sun: intense, direct sunlight can damage its delicate leaves. Choose a bright spot, for example close to a window, without the sun shining directly on it all day.

This Ficus is sensitive to change. Move the plant as little as possible and avoid draughts near a door, window or air conditioning: temperature swings and draughts are the most common cause of leaf loss in this species.

Watering the Ficus Umbellata

Before watering, feel a couple of centimetres into the soil with your finger. If it's dry, you can water, on average that works out to 1 to 2 times a week. It's better to give slightly too little water than too much, as the Ficus Umbellata is prone to root rot.

Never let excess water sit in the pot or saucer. Not sure how moist the soil is at the roots? A moisture meter tells you exactly when the next watering is due.

Humidity and temperature

The Ficus Umbellata originally comes from humid, tropical regions of Africa. Average to high humidity keeps the leaves nicely glossy and prevents brown leaf edges. Occasionally mist the leaves with a plant sprayer, especially in winter when the heating dries out the air.

The ideal temperature is between 18 and 24°C. Avoid cold draughts and sudden temperature changes.

Feeding your Ficus Umbellata

During the growing season, from March through September, give the Ficus Umbellata a bit of liquid houseplant fertiliser once a month. Always follow the recommended dosage on the packaging. During the dormant period from October to February, the plant doesn't need extra feeding.

Soil and pot

Use airy, well-draining potting soil, optionally mixed with a bit of Vulcastrat or clay pebbles for extra drainage. Choose a pot with enough drainage holes so excess water can flow away easily. Repot the Ficus Umbellata roughly every 1 to 2 years, preferably in spring, into a pot only a few centimetres larger than the previous one.

Pruning the Ficus Umbellata

Pruning isn't strictly necessary for the Ficus Umbellata, but it does help make the plant fuller and more compact. In spring, trim the top shoot back slightly, just above a leaf node, to encourage new side shoots. Note: the cut releases a sap that is mildly toxic and can cause skin irritation. Gloves are therefore recommended, and wash your hands after pruning.

Propagating the Ficus Umbellata

You can grow a new Ficus Umbellata via a tip cutting. Cut off a healthy stem with a few leaves and place it in water or moist potting soil. Refresh the water regularly and be patient: after a few weeks to months new roots will form, after which you can plant the cutting in a pot with soil.

Common problems with the Ficus Umbellata

The Ficus Umbellata is more sensitive than the average houseplant and reacts quickly to changes in care or location.

Leaf loss: the most common complaint with this species, often caused by draughts, a new location or a move. The plant usually recovers on its own once it has adjusted to its new spot.

Brown leaf edges: usually points to dry air or an irregular watering routine.

Yellow leaves: often a sign of too much water or a nutrient deficiency.

Mealybugs: recognisable by white, cottony patches on leaves and stems. Check the plant regularly and treat in time with a pest control product.

With the right care, your Ficus Umbellata will grow into a beautiful, healthy eye-catcher at home. Curious which plant suits you best? Discover our range of more than 500 fresh-from-the-grower plants and order today, delivered tomorrow.