Ficus Alii Care: Easier Ficus for Indoor Trees

Cultivar, Not Wild

Ficus binnendijkii ‘Alii’ is a cultivated variety with long, narrow, glossy leaves tapering to a point. Drops lower leaves with age, revealing a palm-like trunk. Sometimes braided.

Care Essentials

• Light: Bright year-round. Less fussy than F. benjamina but drops leaves if light/water inconsistent.
• Water: Thoroughly, then top inch dry. Lukewarm water (cold causes leaf drop). No softened water (salts).
• Humidity: Average.
• Temp: 60–75°F.
• Soil: Good-quality mix.
• Fertilizer: Every 2 weeks spring–fall, half-strength balanced liquid.

Maintenance

• Repot spring only when needed. Smallest pot—likes slightly pot-bound. Drainage holes.
• Watch for whiteflies & scale. Treat immediately.

Propagation

Stem tip cuttings or air layering. Slow to root—challenging for amateurs.

More forgiving than weeping fig, still needs consistency.