Ficus or Fig Bonsai Tree Information

The Ficus genus contains more than 800 species of woody vines, shrubs and trees, but only a limited number of subtropical and tropical species are suitable for growing as bonsai. These species typically do not tolerate temperatures under 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Because Ficus evolved on the forest floor, they can withstand poor indoor light. Their thick, waxy leaves enable them to tolerate dry indoor air.

Growing Conditions

Although Ficus bonsai tolerate poor light and dry air, try to place them where they will receive sunshine. Most Ficus species grow attractive, gnarled aerial roots if they have sufficient humidity. Placing Ficus bonsais' pots on gravel trays that have water and keeping them away from radiators and heating vents encourages humidity. Most Ficus bonsai grow best at temperatures between 59 to 86 F. To increase their health and vigor, place them outside during summer if the nighttime temperature is at least 54 F. The plants need to be kept away from drafts, and they do best with few temperature fluctuations.


A Ficus bonsai that was already trained when purchased requires repotting. The potting mix should have up to 50 percent organic matter, preferably tree bark. The mix also should contain high-fired clay pellet, pumice, sand or other aggregate to promote drainage. You may repot a Ficus bonsai any time of the year but only in warm conditions.

Pruning Basics

Although most Ficus species may be pruned severely year-round, it’s best to prune them in spring when they produce a milky white sap that you can use to heal the plants' wounds. Pruning small branches leaves short stubs. To leave minimal scars on bark, let the stubs dry out, after which you can remove them easily.


The best way to shape Ficus bonsai is by pruning them, not wiring them. If you wire a fast-growing Ficus, do so loosely because you might have to rewire it up to five times in one growing season. The wood bends easily in some species, such as F. benjamina, and it may start growing upward two years after wired. Although removal of most or even all foliage on most species is possible, be careful when trimming branches back to the trunk. F. benjamina is an exception, however; leave some of that bonsai's leaves above the point where you want it to grow buds.

Commonly Grown Varieties

Several kinds of Ficus are grown commonly as bonsais. Chinese banyan fig (F. retusa var. microcarpa), for example, is a classic Ficus bonsai plant famous for its ability to accept hard pruning. It is a vigorous grower that will survive poor growing conditions.

Green Island fig (F. retusa “Green Island") accepts pruning but does not tolerate low light and can lose its lower leaves in poor humidity.

Morton Bay fig (F. macrophylla) grows dark green, glossy leaves and small reddish-orange flowers. It produces aerial roots when grown in high humidity. It will survive hard pruning and rarely drops its leaves.

Port Jackson fig (F. rubiginosa) is a vigorous ficus that produces aerial roots if it has enough humidity. It accepts pruning well.

Weeping fig (F. benjamina) is a better outdoor bonsai than an indoor bonsai. Its trunk and branches need to be reduced gradually. Take care that it does not become stressed.

Willow leaf fig (F. salicifolia) produces handsome roots and aerial roots if it is grown in humid conditions. It drops its leaves if it is not kept in ideal growing conditions.