Commonly known as: XL Ficus Audrey
Botanical name: Ficus Benghalensis ‘Audrey’
Ficus Audrey is one of my top choices if you’re looking for a large indoor tree but don’t want the fuss that sometimes comes with a Fiddle Leaf Fig.
These XL plants are supplied with three stems in a 30cm pot and stand approximately 90cm–1m tall. Having three established stems gives the plant a much fuller appearance from the start, with foliage developing at several levels rather than everything growing from a single trunk.
The leaves are quite different from many other Ficus varieties. They’re broad and matt green rather than glossy, with clearly visible pale veins running through each leaf. New leaves emerge lighter green before gradually darkening as they mature.
Ficus Audrey is the cultivated form of Ficus benghalensis, the Indian Banyan Tree. In its natural environment this is an enormous tree, so don’t make the mistake of treating it as a low-light foliage plant simply because you’re growing it indoors. This is a tree and it needs a massive amount of light.
Put it close to a large window where it receives strong natural light throughout the day. A few hours of direct morning sun is beneficial, and plants can gradually be acclimated to considerably more direct sunlight. Good light keeps the growth compact, strengthens the stems and helps the plant maintain its lower foliage.
Water thoroughly once the upper layer of growing medium has started drying, but don’t keep the roots permanently wet. Equally, avoid repeatedly allowing the entire root ball to become bone dry. Consistent watering works much better with established Ficus trees.
Regular feeding is just as important. Audrey can put on a surprising amount of growth through spring and summer when it receives plenty of light, water and fertiliser. Keeping the leaves clean and providing good airflow will also make a noticeable difference.
For a large indoor Ficus that’s straightforward to maintain once you understand what it needs, Audrey is very difficult to beat.
Ficus Audrey Care Guide
Light – How much light does XL Ficus Audrey need?
Lots of it. Position your Audrey close to a large, bright window rather than several metres back in the room. Gentle direct sun is beneficial, particularly morning sun, and the plant can handle more direct sunlight once gradually acclimated. Poor light is one of the main reasons indoor Ficus trees struggle.
Light – How much light does XL Ficus Audrey need?
Lots of it. Position your Audrey close to a large, bright window rather than several metres back in the room. Gentle direct sun is beneficial, particularly morning sun, and the plant can handle more direct sunlight once gradually acclimated. Poor light is one of the main reasons indoor Ficus trees struggle.
Airflow – Does Ficus Audrey need good airflow?
Yes. Ficus are trees and respond very well to fresh air and good circulation around the foliage. Opening windows when the weather allows or occasionally putting the plant outside in a sheltered position can be very beneficial.
Soil – What growing medium should I use?
Use an open growing medium that drains well while retaining enough moisture to support such a large plant. I recommend Milled Bark Growing Medium. Adding Perlite will increase drainage and airflow around the roots.
Feeding – How often should I fertilise Ficus Audrey?
Regularly. Large Ficus trees use a considerable amount of nutrition while actively growing. Feed with Grobest Organic Fertiliser during spring and summer. I also recommend Controlled Release Fertiliser as a steady background feed. Novatec Soluble Fertiliser is another option during active growth.
Leaf Care – Should I clean the leaves?
Yes. Those broad leaves collect dust surprisingly quickly. Wipe them with a damp cloth or take the plant outside and hose the foliage down. Clean leaves receive light more effectively and regular rinsing also helps with pest management.
Repotting – When should I repot it?
Don’t rush to repot a newly purchased Audrey. Allow it to acclimate first. Once the roots have properly filled its 30cm container, move it up by one pot size during the warmer growing months. Repot into fresh Milled Bark Growing Medium and add Controlled Release Fertiliser.
Rotating – Should I rotate my XL Ficus Audrey?
Yes. Rotate the pot regularly so that all three stems receive light. This encourages more balanced growth and prevents the entire canopy from leaning towards the window.
Pests – What should I check for?
Scale, mealybugs and spider mites can occasionally appear on Ficus. Check along the stems and underneath the leaves when watering. Keeping the foliage clean and providing good airflow makes it much easier to spot a problem early.
Temperature – What temperatures does Ficus Audrey prefer?
Warm conditions around 18°C–28°C are ideal. During winter, keep it away from very cold windows at night and avoid leaving the growing medium heavily saturated during cold weather.
FAQ’s
Q: Is Ficus Audrey easier than a Fiddle Leaf Fig?
Generally, yes. Audrey tends to be more forgiving of changes in conditions than Ficus lyrata. However, it’s still a Ficus tree and needs plenty of light, sensible watering and regular feeding.
Q: How big are these XL Ficus Audrey plants?
They’re supplied in 30cm pots with three stems and stand approximately 90cm–1m tall.
Q: Can Ficus Audrey grow in low light?
No. It may survive for a while, but it won’t grow well. Ficus Audrey is a tree and needs strong natural light to maintain healthy growth and foliage.
Q: Can Ficus Audrey handle direct sunlight?
Yes. Morning sun is excellent, and an established plant can tolerate more direct sunlight once gradually acclimated. Don’t suddenly move an indoor-grown plant into strong all-day sun.
Q: Why is my Ficus Audrey leaning towards the window?
It’s growing towards its strongest light source. Rotate the pot regularly and, if the lean becomes pronounced, consider whether the plant needs a brighter position.
Q: Can I prune my Ficus Audrey?
Yes. Pruning during spring and summer can control its height and encourage branching. Always use clean, sharp secateurs and remember that Ficus produces a white latex sap when cut.
Q: Does Ficus Audrey need regular fertiliser?
Absolutely. It’s a large, actively growing tree. Regular nutrition during the warmer months helps maintain strong stems, healthy leaves and continuous new growth.
Q: Is Ficus Audrey pet safe?
No. Like other Ficus species, its sap can cause irritation and the plant shouldn’t be eaten by cats, dogs or people.
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