A compact, bushy indoor tree with a dense canopy of small, glossy, dark green leaves and a calm, sculptural shape.
Ficus microcarpa 'Moclame', the Indian laurel fig, is one of the most versatile statement houseplants. The rounded oval leaves are held thickly on an upright frame, so the plant looks neat and full without much pruning, and it suits both minimal and busy interiors. It works well in a living room, office, bedroom or hallway, and it has the same air-cleaning reputation as the other figs.
Give it bright, filtered or indirect light; it adapts to lower light better than most figs, though it fills out best in good light. Keep it out of harsh direct sun. Let the top few centimetres of compost dry out between waterings, water less in autumn and winter, and never let the pot sit in water. Normal room temperatures suit it, away from cold draughts and radiators. Feed once a month in spring and summer, and wipe the big leaves with a damp cloth now and then, because dust stops them working. Ficus dislikes being moved, so choose its spot and leave it there.
Supplied as one established plant with a 5 litre root ball, ready to pot into a decorative container of your choice. The milky sap is a skin irritant and the plant is harmful if eaten, so keep it away from children, cats and dogs.
Cultural Information
Common Name: Indian laurel fig, Chinese banyan
Fully Grown Height and Spread: 1 to 2m x 60 to 100cm indoors
Growth Habit: Upright, bushy indoor tree with a dense canopy
Perfect For: Living rooms, offices, bedrooms and hallways
Foliage: Glossy, dark green, oval to elliptic leaves
Flowering Time: Grown for foliage; does not flower indoors
Planting Position: Bright to medium indirect light indoors
Soil Type: Free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost
Hardiness: Tender, indoor only; keep above 15C
Maintenance: Moderate; keep it in one place and water evenly
Seasonal Interest: Evergreen foliage
Type: Evergreen foliage houseplant
