Water
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain away completely. Reduce watering frequency during winter months.
Also known as Banyan · Banyan Fig · Banyantree
Ficus benghalensis, the Indian Banyan, is a large tree famous for its aerial prop roots that form new trunks, creating a vast canopy. It is majestic and long-lived.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun.
80% intensity
Avoid intense afternoon sun
Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Ensure good drainage.
60% intensity
Reduce in winter
Well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and sand. Slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal.
50% intensity
Ideal growing temperature is between 18-25°C. Protect from frost.
80% intensity
Avoid temperatures below 10°C
Outdoor, Indoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season.
50% intensity
Do not fertilize in winter
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain away completely. Reduce watering frequency during winter months.
Prune to maintain shape and size, and to encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning can be done at any time of year, but spring is ideal.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Cuttings should be at least 15 cm long and rooted in moist potting mix or water. Air layering is also effective.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Spring is the best time for repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Indian Banyan (Ficus benghalensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Ficus |
| Species | Ficus benghalensis |
Similar in genus Ficus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
