Ficus plants are a go-to choice for adding structure, height, and lush greenery to indoor spaces. From Fiddle Leaf Figs to classic Ficus benjamina, these indoor trees are beautiful, but they can be particular about care. The good news? With the right setup, ficus plants are long-lasting and incredibly rewarding.

At Chelsea Garden Center, our plant experts help customers choose and care for indoor ficus plants every day. Whether you’re troubleshooting leaf drop or learning how to care for a new ficus at home, this guide covers the essentials to help your plant thrive in NYC apartments and beyond.

Popular Indoor Ficus Varieties

Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig):
A classic indoor ficus with glossy, arching foliage that fits beautifully in living rooms and bright corners. Known for its graceful shape and wide availability. 

Ficus lyrata (Fiddle-Leaf Fig): One of the most popular indoor ficus plants, prized for its large, violin-shaped leaves and dramatic presence. A statement tree for bright interiors.

Ficus elastica (Rubber Plant): A hardy favorite with thick, glossy leaves. Varieties like Burgundy, Tineke (variegated), and Red Ruby give you multiple looks to choose from. This type of ficus is beloved because it can tolerate periods of drought, does well in a range of light, and is very beginner friendly.

Ficus benghalensis (Ficus Audrey): A softer, more forgiving alternative to fiddle-leaf figs, with velvety leaves and a relaxed tree form that’s great for taller indoor spaces. Bright, indirect light is ideal but it is more tolerant of moderate light than other ficus species. 

Ficus microcarpa: Often seen in bonsai form or as a compact indoor tree, this variety adds character with its thick trunk and small, glossy leaves.

Ficus maclellandii ‘Moclame’: A sleek, upright ficus with narrow, pointed leaves and a clean, modern silhouette. Moclame is becoming increasingly popular for apartments and offices thanks to its tidy growth habit and adaptability to indoor conditions. Does well in a bright, sunny window.

Best Light for Indoor Ficus Plants

Generally speaking, ficus trees need bright, indirect light indoors. An East facing window is ideal, but they will also appreciate diffused light from a West or South facing window. If you have lower light conditions, the Ficus Audrey or Ficus elastica may be the best choice for you.

How Often to Water a Ficus Indoors

Watering schedules depend on the size of the plant and the environment your home offers. We recommend letting your ficus tree completely dry out between waterings, no matter the size.

For smaller pot sizes (4" - 6") this may be around 7-10 days. For larger pot sizes (8"+) this may be around 14 days. It is always best to check the soil with your finger or a moisture meter to know if your plant is ready for a drink.

When you do water your plant, water it slowly at the base of the tree until water comes out of the bottom drainage holes of your planter. 

When and How to Repot a Ficus

When you notice water running through the soil very quickly and/or roots coming out of the top of the pot or bottom drainage hole, it is most likely time to repot your plant.

Ficus plants require a well-draining soil and planter with a drainage. Most all-purpose or indoor plant potting mixes work well for ficus trees. When selecting a planter, make sure the planter is only 2" larger in diameter than the current planter it is in and has a drainage hole on the bottom. 

Humidity and Temperature Needs for Ficus

Ficus plants prefer moderate humidity and consistent indoor temperatures to thrive, ideally between 65–80°F. Avoid placing them near radiators, drafty windows, or air vents, as sudden temperature changes and dry air can lead to leaf drop.

Common Ficus Problems: FAQ

Why is my ficus dropping leaves?
Leaf drop is usually stress-related. Common causes in NYC apartments include drafts from windows or AC units, sudden lighting changes, or inconsistent watering.

Why are my ficus leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves often mean overwatering or poor drainage. Make sure your pot has drainage holes and let the soil dry slightly between waterings.

Can I move my ficus to a different spot?
Yes, but move it gradually. Ficus are sensitive to environmental changes, so sudden relocation—common during NYC winter heating—can trigger leaf drop.

Are ficus plants toxic to pets?
Yes. Ficus sap can irritate skin, and ingestion may upset pets’ stomachs. Keep your ficus out of reach of cats, dogs, and children.