The Best Way to Grow and Care for Ficus Umbellata Indoors

Ficus Umbellata, also known as the umbrella tree fig, is an elegant and lesser-known ficus species that has been gaining popularity among houseplant enthusiasts. Native to West Africa and particularly beloved in Japan, this plant boasts large, heart-shaped leaves that add a touch of sophistication to any indoor space.

If you’re considering adding Ficus Umbellata to your plant collection, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, including light, watering, soil, temperature, humidity, propagation, common issues, and more.

Why Grow Ficus Umbellata?

• Aesthetic Appeal: Its large, waxy green leaves and long, delicate stems create a whimsical, tropical vibe.
• Unique Alternative: While many plant lovers turn to the fiddle-leaf fig, Ficus Umbellata offers a similar look but with easier care.
• Air Purification: Like many indoor plants, it helps improve air quality by filtering toxins.

Important Note: Ficus Umbellata is toxic to both humans and pets if ingested, so keep it out of reach of children and animals.

Key Characteristics

Common Name: Umbrella tree fig 

Botanical Name: Ficus umbellata

Family: Moraceae 

Plant Type: Tree, perennial 

Mature Size: 4-12 ft. tall, 4-5 ft. wide 

Sun Exposure: Full, partial 

Soil Type: Moist but well-draining 

Soil pH: Acidic

Native Area: Africa 

Toxicity: Toxic to humans and pets

How to Care for Ficus Umbellata

Light Requirements

Ficus Umbellata thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Place it near a south-facing or east-facing window where it receives filtered sunlight.

Avoid direct afternoon sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

Tip: If your home has low light, consider using a grow light to keep your plant healthy.

Watering Schedule

Ficus Umbellata prefers consistent moisture, but overwatering can lead to root rot.

• Water when the top 25% of the soil feels dry.
• Use room-temperature water and ensure the pot has drainage holes.
• Never let the plant sit in standing water.

Signs of Overwatering: Yellowing leaves, mushy stems, or wilting.
Signs of Underwatering: Droopy, crispy, or brown-edged leaves.

Best Soil Mix

A well-draining soil mix is crucial for Ficus Umbellata. A mix of:
Indoor potting soil (retains moisture)
Perlite (improves aeration)
Orchid bark or sand (enhances drainage)

You can also use cactus and succulent soil for added drainage.

Ideal Temperature and Humidity

This tropical plant enjoys warm temperatures and high humidity.

• Best temperature range: 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C)
• Humidity level: Above 50% for optimal growth

Boost Humidity:
Place a humidifier near the plant
Use a pebble tray filled with water
Group plants together to create a microclimate

Avoid placing near air conditioners, heaters, or drafty windows!

Fertilizing Routine

During the growing season (spring & summer):

• Feed with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer once a month.
• Reduce fertilization in fall & winter, as growth slows down.

Pro Tip: Always dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid root burn.

Pruning and Shaping Your Ficus Umbellata

Although not necessary, pruning helps control size and encourages branching.

When to prune?

• Spring or summer (active growing season)
• If the plant gets too leggy or tall
• To remove yellowing or damaged leaves

Pruning Tips:
Use sharp, sterilized scissors
Cut just above a node to encourage new growth

How to Prop

How to Propagate Ficus Umbellata

Propagation is an easy way to create new plants from cuttings.

Step-by-Step Water Propagation:

1. Take a 3-5 inch cutting with at least 3 nodes and one healthy leaf.
2. Remove the bottom leaves, leaving the top leaf intact.
3. Place the cutting in a jar of water, ensuring at least one node is submerged.
4. Keep it in bright, indirect light.
5. Change the water weekly.
6. After 3-6 weeks, roots should appear. Transfer to well-draining soil.

Pro Tip: Using rooting hormone can speed up the process.

Repotting Ficus Umbellata

Repotting is needed every 2-3 years when the plant outgrows its pot.

How to Repot:

• Choose a pot 2-4 inches larger than the current one.
• Refresh the soil mix to prevent nutrient depletion.
• Be gentle with the roots to reduce transplant shock.

Signs Your Plant Needs Repotting:

• Roots growing out of drainage holes
• Soil dries out too quickly
• Stunted growth

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow Leaves

Possible Causes:

• Overwatering or underwatering
• Low humidity
• Lack of sunlight

Solution: Adjust watering and light conditions.

Brown, Crispy Edges

Possible Causes:

• Too much direct sunlight
• Low humidity
• Underwatering

Solution: Move to indirect light and increase humidity.

Drooping Leaves

Possible Causes:

• Sudden temperature changes
• Too much or too little water

Solution: Maintain consistent watering and temperature.

Pests (Mealybugs, Scale, Spider Mites)

Signs: Sticky residue, tiny white bugs, or yellowing leaves.
Solution:
Wipe leaves with neem oil or insecticidal soap
Isolate the plant to prevent spreading

Is Ficus Umbellata a Rare Houseplant?

Ficus Umbellata is not mass-produced like the fiddle-leaf fig, making it less common in garden centers. However, it is not extremely rare and can be found in specialty nurseries and online stores.

Lifespan: With proper care, it can live up to 20 years indoors!

Final Thoughts: Is Ficus Umbellata Right for You?

If you’re looking for a stunning, large-leafed houseplant that is a bit easier to care for than a fiddle-leaf fig, Ficus Umbellata is an excellent choice.

Great for: Experienced plant owners & those who love statement plants
Not ideal for: Homes with pets or small children (due to toxicity)

Ready to add this beauty to your plant collection? Let us know in the comments!

FAQ

1. How often should I repot Ficus Umbellata?
Repot every 2-3 years when it outgrows its pot. Use a container 2-4 inches larger than the current one.

2. Why are my Ficus Umbellata leaves turning yellow?
Possible reasons include overwatering, underwatering, low humidity, or insufficient light. Adjust care accordingly.

3. Is Ficus Umbellata toxic to pets?
Yes, Ficus Umbellata is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep it out of reach of children and animals.

4. How long can Ficus Umbellata live indoors?
With proper care, it can live up to 20 years as a houseplant.

5.What type of soil is best for Ficus Umbellata?
A well-draining mix with indoor potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark is ideal. Cactus or succulent mix also works well.

6. Does Ficus Umbellata need high humidity?
Yes, it prefers humidity above 50%. Use a humidifier, pebble tray, or mist the leaves to maintain moisture.

7. When should I fertilize my Ficus Umbellata?
Feed once a month during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer. Reduce in fall and winter.