Long Leaf Ficus 'Ficus alii'

A beautiful interior plant, Binnendijk’s fig requires well-drained soil, even moisture and moderate to high light conditions. If a fig is to be used as an interior specimen, be sure the plant is acclimatized which means the grower has subjected it to interior-like growing conditions before shipping to avoid shock. Binnendijk’s fig is resistant to the most common problem associated with interior use of Ficus – dropped foliage.

Site: Provide filtered sunlight or bright indirect light. This translates to a bright east, west or south-facing window. If your plant is against a wall, rotate the plant every few weeks to prevent the back of the plant from losing it’s leaves.

Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings and then water thoroughly and completely. This may mean watering once and then again an hour later as the dry soil begins to absorb water. Do not allow the plant to sit in water. Until you become familiar with your plant’s water requirements… check for water twice a week. Water with tepid water… cold water may cause leaf loss. “Alii” does not require as much water as other Ficus – over watering will cause leaf drop and leaf spotting.

Feeding: A liquid feed every month or so.

Tip: Roots of this plant are very slow growing so re-potting is rarely needed. Be conservative with fertilizers containing boron as these plant are very sensitive to it.

Try to plant in a location that enjoys partial sun and remember to water moderately. Ficus alii is generally regarded as a tender plant, so remember to wait until your soil is warm and the night time temperature is well above freezing before moving outside.

Planted in warm, frost-free climates the Binnendijk’s fig becomes a huge tree (up to 100’) with invasive ground roots and spreading aerial branches. It is only suitable for very large gardens and parks. Various species of tropical Ficus are used extensively as hedges. Wherever planted as a hedge or tree, fig roots can invade water lines and lift pavement. In hurricane prone zones, tropical figs are very susceptible to falling during a storm.

Ficus alii is tender, so ensure you wait until all danger of frost has passed in your area before considering planting outside.

This plant was originally commercially cultivated in Hawaii – ‘Alii’ is Hawaiian for “Chief”.

Saber fig, Long leaf ficus, Narrow leaf ficus, Binnendijk’s fig, Sabre fig