A native plant of southern Asia and India, the willow leaf ficus (Ficus nerifolia or Ficus salicifolia) can grow outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 10 and 11. Since it adapts easily to most locations, it also can grow indoors in almost any climate. Because of its adaptability and its unusual brown-gray trunk and pointed, narrow green leaves, the willow leaf ficus has become a favorite with many bonsai artists as well as a desirable house plant.
Select a site with plenty of light. While the willow leaf ficus can grow in shady locations, it does best in sites that receive full sun. However, avoid placing it anywhere that receives direct sunlight on summer afternoons. Avoid drafty locations or places with fluctuating temperatures for the best growth. Even if your ficus is kept as a house plant, it can go outside during the summer months.
Water your ficus before it can dry out completely since it tends to prefer moist soil. If your climate allows your ficus to grow outside, decrease the amount of water during the winter months. Since ficus is a tropical plant, mist it daily to provide optimum humidity.
Prune your ficus to make it more compact and to encourage more branching. Use pruning shears to cut branches just above a leaf node or where a stem branches.
Fertilize your plant every 3 to 4 weeks during periods of rapid growth, diluting the fertilizer to half the recommended strength. Continue fertilizing through the winter months if your plant is under fluorescent lights.
Repot your ficus plant at least every two to three years, although it may need more frequent repotting. While it is best to repot your plant in early spring, it may be repotted at other times of the year if necessary.
Things You Will Need
- Pruning shears
- Prune your ficus back to 2 to 4 leaves after it grows 6 to 10 leaves to make the leaves smaller if you plan to use your tree for bonsai. Pinch off the leaves or use pruning shears. The plant will secrete a milky substance when cut; this helps seal the wound.
- Use aluminum wire to shape your tree, regardless of whether you use it for bonsai; however, check the wire often so it does not grow into the tree since the plant grows rapidly.