How to Care for and Maintain Ficus Black | Ficus Elastica, Plus Growth Tips — Keep Your Plants Lush and Vibrant! [With Photos]

According to the Family Magazine section of SaedNews, the Ficus plant comes in several varieties, including Ficus Black, Ficus Elastica, Ficus Benjamin, and Ficus Wine. The care methods for these varieties are largely the same. To maintain a Ficus Black, you need to know that this plant prefers stable and balanced conditions. Therefore, try to keep temperature and light consistent throughout all seasons. If the plant experiences low light and cold in winter and is exposed to direct sunlight and high temperatures in summer, it will not survive.

Caring for Ficus

Ideal Conditions for Ficus Black

Here are the main factors to consider when caring for Ficus Black and Ficus Elastica:

Temperature
The ideal temperature for Ficus Black and Elastica is a comfortable, moderate range of 16–24°C (61–75°F). During winter, keep your Ficus in a warm, sheltered environment. Cold air can cause leaf browning and leaf drop.

Watering
Winter is the dormant season for Ficus Black and Elastica. Extend the time between watering sessions so the soil can dry slightly. In summer, when the air is drier, water more frequently and increase humidity by misting leaves or placing a water container near the plant. Avoid spraying water on leaves under direct sunlight, as this can cause brown, burned spots. Overwatering can rot the roots, while severe drought causes leaves to curl and droop. Balance is key.

Light
Ficus Elastica and Ficus Black need moderate light—neither too intense nor too dim. Excessive light can curl leaves, while insufficient light slows growth and dulls leaf color. Ficus Black, Wine, and Benjamin varieties require more light than Elastica to maintain their leaf color. Too much light can burn leaves.

Soil and Fertilizer
Ficus Elastica requires well-draining soil. A mix of regular soil + leaf soil + peat moss works best. Nutrient deficiency can cause leaves to deform and lose color. For artificial feeding, use 10-10-10 fertilizer every two weeks or 20-20-20 every five weeks. Once a month, apply a complete fertilizer to stimulate growth.

Relocation
Avoid moving Ficus Black unnecessarily. It takes time for the plant to adjust to new conditions, and frequent changes increase the risk of plant loss.

Consistency
Maintaining stable temperature and light is crucial. In summer, avoid direct sunlight, and in winter, ensure sufficient light. Using a plant grow lamp provides consistent light year-round, eliminating the need to move the plant and keeping it in a steady indoor temperature. If winter care is proper (less frequent watering, 20–25°C temperature, adequate light), the plant will remain healthy, showcase its beauty, and potentially reach 3 meters in height over time.

Common Diseases and Remedies for Ficus Elastica

Problems in Ficus Elastica usually result from unfavorable conditions. Study the care guidelines above and correct any inconsistencies. Common issues include:

• Yellowing leaves: Caused by overwatering.

• Brown spots: Can result from cold exposure or water sprayed on leaves under direct sunlight.

• Small black spots: Signs of pest infestation, removable only with pesticide treatment.

• Young leaf drop: Indicates the plant is weakening and needs fertilizer.

Ficus Black FAQs

1. Is Ficus toxic?
   Yes, Ficus is toxic. Its sap can cause skin irritation, and ingestion may lead to diarrhea and vomiting.

2. Why doesn’t my Ficus bloom?
   Improper light or incorrect watering (too much or too little) prevents Ficus Elastica from thriving and flowering.