🌳 Ficus rubiginosa 'Australis'

Ficus rubiginosa 'Australis', commonly known as the Port Jackson Fig, is a robust, glossy-leaved fig tree native to eastern Australia. The 'Australis' cultivar is particularly admired for its compact form, leathery deep green leaves with distinctive rusty-brown undersides, and adaptable nature. The species name rubiginosa refers to this rusty colouring (rubigo meaning rust in Latin), giving the foliage added visual interest and texture.

In warm climates, Ficus rubiginosa grows into a large, buttressed tree often used in parks and streetscapes. In the UK, it is grown primarily as an indoor foliage specimen, bonsai subject, or greenhouse feature, where it offers air-purifying benefits, lush greenery, and a strong, sculptural presence.

This species is much tougher and more tolerant than many other ornamental figs, making it ideal for interiors, conservatories, or carefully placed outdoor summer displays.

🛠️ Ficus rubiginosa 'Australis' – Comprehensive Care Guide

🌞 Light Requirements

• Thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates partial shade.

• Can adapt to a range of indoor lighting, but best growth and colour occur in well-lit locations such as near east- or west-facing windows.

• Avoid harsh direct sun through glass, which may scorch leaves, and low light, which may cause leaf drop.

💧 Watering

• Water when the top 2–3cm of soil feels dry to the touch.

• Spring/Summer: every 7–10 days, depending on temperature and light.

• Autumn/Winter: reduce watering to every 10–14 days or less.

• Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering – soggy roots can lead to leaf yellowing or drop.

🌫️ Humidity

• Tolerant of average UK indoor humidity.

• Benefits from occasional misting or grouping with other plants in centrally heated rooms.

• Dry air may cause leaf edges to brown slightly but won't seriously harm the plant.

🌡️ Temperature

• Prefers warm conditions between 16–26°C.

• Tolerates cooler nights but must be kept above 10°C.

• Avoid cold draughts or placement near radiators or uninsulated windows in winter.

🌱 Soil

• Grows best in well-draining houseplant compost.

• Blend standard compost with perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage.

• For bonsai cultivation, use a free-draining mix with akadama, pumice, and organic matter.

🍽️ Feeding

• Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced houseplant or fig-specific fertiliser.

• Reduce feeding in autumn and stop in winter.

• Pale leaves may indicate a need for feeding or improved light.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Responds well to pruning – ideal for bonsai or structured indoor trees.

• Prune in early spring to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.

• Pinch back new growth to keep compact.

• Remove any yellow or dead leaves to promote airflow and appearance.

🪴 Repotting

• Repot every 2–3 years in spring or when rootbound.

• Use a slightly larger pot with fresh, free-draining soil.

• For bonsai-style plants, root pruning can be done during repotting.

🐛 Pests & Problems

• May occasionally attract:

  • Spider mites, mealybugs, or scale insects, especially in dry or dusty conditions.

• Wipe leaves regularly to prevent pests and improve shine.

• Leaf drop can result from:

  • Sudden temperature changes, low light, or overwatering.

☠️ Toxicity

• Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested – contains a latex sap that may irritate skin and mucous membranes.

• Keep out of reach of pets and children.

🌟 Top Tips for Success

• A great choice for beginner bonsai enthusiasts, thanks to its resilience and response to pruning.

• Let the topsoil dry slightly between waterings – consistency is key.

• Makes a bold impression as a miniature indoor tree or textured statement plant in bright rooms.