Ficus benghalensis 'Roy' – Growth, Care and Essential Insights


Ficus benghalensis 'Roy', also known as the Bengal banyan, is a striking cultivar of Ficus benghalensis, prized for its fast growth and bold, leathery foliage. With broad green leaves and pale veining, this upright indoor tree creates an immediate visual impact. Over time, it may develop aerial roots and a broad canopy, adding an architectural touch to spacious interiors. Indoors, 'Roy' offers a manageable version of a species that’s revered across South Asia for its monumental size and presence in the wild.


What Makes Ficus benghalensis 'Roy' Unique

 
Impressive foliage: Large, deep green leaves with a matte finish and prominent veins.
 
Rapid development: Fast-growing under bright light with good care.
 
Aerial roots: Can emerge in high humidity, adding to its banyan-like appearance.
 
Natural shape: Spreads into a wide, elegant form perfect for open-plan rooms.


Botanical Facts About Ficus benghalensis 'Roy'
Native to the Indian subcontinent, Ficus benghalensis thrives in tropical climates with high rainfall and warmth. Outdoors, it forms vast trees with multiple trunks. Indoors, 'Roy' grows upright and compact, typically reaching 1.5–3 meters. All parts of the plant contain latex sap, which is toxic if ingested and may cause skin irritation. Keep out of reach of pets and children.


Indoor Care Guide for Ficus benghalensis 'Roy'

 
Placement: Choose a spot with bright light. A few hours of direct sun are fine, especially morning or late afternoon.
 
Light: Requires bright, indirect light to full sun. Low light will slow growth and lead to sparse foliage.
 
Watering: Let the top 3–5 cm of soil dry before watering. Never allow the soil to stay soggy.
 
Humidity: Tolerates standard room humidity but benefits from slightly elevated levels in dry environments.
 
Temperature: Performs best between 22–30°C. Protect from cold air or temperature swings.
 
Soil: Use a well-draining, peat-free mix like an aroid substrate with added perlite or bark.
 
Repotting: Every 2–3 years or when roots begin circling the pot. Repot in spring if possible.
 
Fertilizing: Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
 
Propagation: Can be propagated from cuttings. Allow cut ends to callous and root in moist, warm conditions.
 
Pruning: Cut back to shape or remove lower foliage to encourage a tree-like form. Always prune above a node.
 
Semi-hydroponics: Adaptable to inert substrates with careful watering and nutrient management.


Common Problems and Solutions for Ficus benghalensis 'Roy'

 
Yellowing leaves: Usually caused by overwatering. Let the soil dry more between waterings.
 
Brown tips: May result from low humidity or fluoride in tap water. Switch to filtered water if symptoms persist.
 
Leaf drop: Often triggered by changes in location, watering habits, or temperature. Maintain consistent conditions.
 
Pests: Susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and scale. Treat with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduce beneficial insects.


Additional Notes for Indoor Success

 
Over time, it may develop aerial roots, especially in high humidity conditions.
 
Provide ample space for the canopy to spread and maintain airflow around the leaves.
 
Rotate regularly for even light exposure and symmetrical growth.


Etymology and Botanical History
The genus Ficus comes from Latin for “fig.” The species name benghalensis refers to the Bengal region of South Asia. It was first published by Carl Linnaeus in 1753 in *Species Plantarum*. The cultivar name 'Roy' designates a horticultural selection with larger leaves and a more vigorous indoor habit.


Ficus benghalensis 'Roy' – Frequently Asked Questions
Can it be trained as a bonsai?
Yes, though it grows rapidly. With regular pruning and root trimming, it can be shaped into a bonsai-like form, though it naturally prefers larger containers.


Is Ficus benghalensis 'Roy' beginner-friendly?
Yes. It's more forgiving than other ficus types, as long as you provide good light and avoid overwatering.


Is Ficus benghalensis 'Roy' Toxic?
Yes. All parts of Ficus benghalensis 'Roy', including the leaves and latex sap, are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The sap may also cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Always wear gloves when pruning, and keep the plant out of reach of children, cats, and dogs.


Does it drop leaves when moved?
Yes, it may shed some leaves during acclimation, especially if light or humidity conditions change. It typically rebounds once settled.


Bring Home Ficus benghalensis 'Roy' Today
Looking for a bold, fast-growing indoor tree with character? Ficus benghalensis 'Roy' offers architectural form, low maintenance, and a tropical touch to any room. Order now and grow your own indoor banyan with ease.