Botanical name: XL Ficus Moclame Bush
Commonly known as: Indian Laurel Fig / Ficus Moclame
The XL Ficus Moclame Bush is a beautifully full indoor tree with dense, rounded foliage and plenty of established growth from the start.
These plants are grown in 30cm pots and stand approximately 1m tall, with a bushy canopy of glossy green leaves and a much softer look than a single-stem tree form.
Ficus Moclame does particularly well indoors when it gets loads of natural light. A bright position close to a large window is ideal, and once properly acclimatised, it can also handle a few hours of direct sun.
The biggest thing I would avoid is putting it into a dark corner. Moclame may survive there for a while, but growth will weaken and leaf drop can follow. Strong light keeps the plant fuller, supports fresh growth and helps maintain a dense canopy.
Keep the watering consistent rather than allowing the root ball to dry out completely for long periods. Regular feeding also makes a noticeable difference, especially through the warmer growing months.
Because the foliage is so dense, good airflow is useful too. If practical, take the plant outside occasionally and give it a thorough hose-down. This removes dust, freshens the foliage and helps discourage spider mites.
With good light, steady watering and regular feeding, the XL Ficus Moclame Bush is a very rewarding indoor tree that can stay full and lush for years.
XL Ficus Moclame Bush Care Guide
Water – How often should I water my XL Ficus Moclame Bush?
Water thoroughly once the upper section of the growing medium starts to dry, then allow the excess water to drain away.
Try to keep the watering consistent rather than letting the plant dry out completely and then soaking it heavily. Ficus generally respond much better to a steady rhythm.
Use your finger to check the growing medium rather than relying on a fixed weekly schedule.
Light – Where should I place my Ficus Moclame?
Give it loads of natural light.
A position close to a large window is ideal. Once the plant has acclimatised, a few hours of direct sun can be very beneficial and will help maintain strong, compact growth.
Avoid dark corners. If the plant starts dropping leaves or the canopy becomes thinner, light should be the first thing you reassess.
Humidity – Does Ficus Moclame need high humidity?
Normal household humidity is generally fine.
Good airflow is more important than keeping the air overly humid. Because the plant is so bushy, fresh air around the canopy helps keep the foliage healthier.
If practical, take it outside occasionally and hose the leaves thoroughly. This removes dust and is one of the easiest ways to help keep spider mites under control.
Soil – What growing medium should I use?
Use a growing medium that drains well but still holds enough moisture to keep the roots evenly hydrated.
I recommend Milled Bark Growing Medium. You can add Perlite if you want to increase drainage and airflow around the roots.
Avoid heavy, compacted mixes that remain soggy for too long.
Feeding – Does my XL Ficus Moclame need fertiliser?
Yes. Regular feeding helps maintain that dense canopy and encourages strong new growth.
Controlled Release Fertiliser is a very convenient option for steady, balanced nutrition over time.
If you want to push strong active growth, Novatec Soluble Fertiliser is an excellent choice.
Repotting – When should I move it into a bigger pot?
There is no need to rush.
Wait until the root system has properly filled the current pot, then move up by one sensible pot size. Avoid jumping straight into a very large container, because too much wet growing medium around the roots can create problems.
Spring and summer are generally the easiest times to repot.
Pests – What should I watch for?
Spider mites, scale and mealybugs are the main pests to keep an eye on.
Check underneath the leaves and inside the denser parts of the canopy where pests can hide.
Regularly hosing or wiping the foliage helps enormously with early detection and prevention.
Temperature – What temperatures does Ficus Moclame prefer?
Warm household temperatures suit it well.
Protect it from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes during winter. Growth will naturally slow in the colder months, so the plant will usually need less frequent watering as well.
FAQ’s
Q: Is the Ficus Moclame easy to care for?
Yes — once you find a spot it likes, it stays consistent and low-maintenance.
Q: Why are some leaves dropping?
That’s usually from a sudden change in light or watering. Give it a good boost of fertilizer, a little bit of time and it’ll re-leaf once settled.
Q: Can I prune it to keep it shapely?
Absolutely. Trim the tips in spring to maintain a rounded, bushy look.
Q: Is it safe for pets?
No — like most ficus species, it’s mildly toxic if ingested, so keep it out of reach of pets.
