Ficus benghalensis, also known as banyan tree, has large, matt leaves with pale veins. Choose 'Audrey' with a braided trunk or a banyan tree up to around 2 metres, for a bright spot out of harsh midday sun.
The Ficus benghalensis 'Audrey' with a braided trunk is 150 cm tall in a ø30 cm pot. The stems are twisted together, with a crown of leaves on top. That gives the plant a neat, tree-like shape. The 150 cm banyan tree comes in the same ø30 cm pot size. The 200 cm deluxe tree is the largest in this collection and suits a tall living room, a double-height space or an office.
Compared with a Ficus lyrata or a rubber plant, the benghalensis has smaller, softer leaves. That makes it look calmer and lighter. You will find other plants of this size among the large plants from 150 to 200 cm. We measure height from the bottom of the pot to the tallest leaf.
Light and position
A Ficus benghalensis wants a bright spot. One to two metres from a window usually works well. It can take some morning or evening sun, but harsh midday sun through glass can scorch the leaves. In a spot that is too dark it grows slowly and drops leaves. Like most figs, it dislikes draughts and being moved. After a move it sometimes loses a few leaves. That usually recovers once it stays in the same place.
Water and care
Water when the top few centimetres of compost are dry and do not leave the plant standing in water. In winter it needs less water than in summer. The matt leaves collect dust. Wipe them gently now and then with a soft, damp cloth. A damaged leaf or a cut branch releases white milky sap, which can irritate the skin, so wear gloves when pruning. You will find more tips in the Ficus care guide.
Delivery and pot
In the Netherlands your banyan tree arrives within 4 to 5 working days, packed upright in a sturdy plant box. Delivery in the Netherlands is free from €99. If the plant arrives damaged, send us a photo and we will send a new plant free of charge. The plant comes in a nursery pot. You always choose a decorative pot separately, so you decide the colour and size yourself.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Ficus Audrey?
Ficus 'Audrey' is a trade name for Ficus benghalensis, the banyan tree. It has oval, light green leaves with striking pale veins and a light-coloured trunk. In its natural habitat in South Asia it grows into a huge tree. As a houseplant it stays much smaller and is easy to care for.
How often do you water a Ficus benghalensis?
Water when the top few centimetres of compost feel dry. In summer that is usually once a week, less often in winter. Water until it runs out of the nursery pot and do not leave the plant standing in water. Overwatering is the most common mistake with this plant.
Why is my banyan tree losing leaves?
A Ficus benghalensis reacts to change. After delivery, a move or a new spot it often drops a few leaves. Too little light, cold, draughts or soil that is too wet can also be the cause. Give it a fixed, bright spot and a regular watering routine, and it usually recovers by itself.
What is the difference between a Ficus benghalensis and a Ficus lyrata?
The benghalensis has smaller, oval leaves that look soft and matt, with pale veins. The lyrata has large, stiff leaves shaped like a violin. Both want a bright spot without harsh midday sun and dislike draughts. Which one you choose mainly depends on the leaves you like.
How big does a Ficus benghalensis get indoors?
Indoors it mainly grows upwards and can reach the ceiling after a number of years. How fast depends on light, pot size and care. If it gets too tall, you can cut back the top in spring. It often branches out below the cut afterwards.
How often should I water my banyan tree?
Water as soon as the top two to three centimetres of compost feel dry. In the growing season that is about once a week on average, less in winter. Make sure no water is left in the bottom of the pot, because wet feet lead to root rot.
What is the difference between the Ficus benghalensis and the Ficus lyrata?
Both are large-leaved figs, but the benghalensis has softer, velvety and more oval leaves with pale veins, while the lyrata has glossy, violin-shaped leaves. The benghalensis is generally a little easier and less quick to drop leaves.
Why is my banyan tree dropping leaves?
Leaf drop is usually a stress reaction to change. A new position, cold draughts or irregular watering can be the cause. The banyan tree is more forgiving than the fiddle leaf fig, but it also likes a stable spot.
Is the Ficus benghalensis toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes, the plant is mildly toxic to pets. The milky sap can irritate the mouth and stomach if swallowed. So keep the banyan tree out of reach of cats and dogs.
What is the ideal spot for a banyan tree?
A bright spot with plenty of indirect light is ideal, for example a few metres from a south-facing window or close to an east-facing one. Avoid harsh midday sun, radiators and cold draughts.
