Ficus Audrey Care
Ficus benghalensis 'Audrey'
At a glance
| βοΈ Light | Bright indirect, with some gentle morning sun. |
|---|---|
| π§ Water | When the top 5 cm of soil is dry. Every 7β10 days in summer, 2β3 weeks in winter. |
| πͺ΄ Soil | Well-draining: our Tropical Potting Mix. |
| π‘οΈ Temp | 16β29Β°C. Hates cold drafts. |
| π¨ Humidity | Average is fine. |
| πΎ Pets | Not pet safe The milky sap is irritating to cats and dogs (and skin). |
| π± Care level | Easy Easier than a fiddle leaf |
| π Grows to | 1β3 m indoors; can be pruned to size. |
If you love the look of a fiddle leaf fig but not the drama, meet Audrey. Its soft, velvety leaves with pale veins grow on a sturdy trunk, and it's much more forgiving about watering and light. It's one of our favourite floor plants for beginners.
Light + placement
Audrey grows best in bright, indirect light, close to an east or west window or set back from a south window. A couple of hours of soft morning sun is welcome. It will tolerate medium light but grows slowly and drops lower leaves. Rotate it every few weeks so it grows evenly.
Watering
Water thoroughly, then let the top 5 cm of soil dry before watering again. Audrey is more drought-tolerant than other ficus, so if in doubt, wait a few days. Big pots dry slowly in winter; a moisture meter takes out the guesswork.
Soil + repotting
Use a well-draining mix like our Tropical Potting Mix and a pot with a drainage hole. Repot every 2 years in spring, one size up. If you want it to stay the same size, just refresh the top few centimetres of soil each spring.
Feeding + upkeep
Feed every 2β4 weeks from April to September. The fuzzy leaves collect dust, so wipe them gently with a damp cloth every month or two. To make it bushier, prune just above a leaf in spring; new branches grow from that point. Wear gloves, as the sap is sticky and irritating.
Common problems
| What you see | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Leaves dropping after you bring it home | Normal adjustment to a new spot | Keep it in one bright place and water normally; it settles in 2β4 weeks. |
| Lower leaves yellowing | Overwatering or low light | Let it dry more between waterings; move closer to the light. |
| Brown spots or edges | Underwatering or dry heat | Water more consistently; keep away from heaters. |
| Leggy and leaning | Not enough light | Move closer to a window and rotate regularly. |
| Sticky leaves, small bumps on stems | Scale insects | Wipe off and treat with Houseplant Spray or neem. |
Varieties we carry
We carry Audrey as a tabletop plant and as a tree-form floor plant. Only what's in stock online right now is shown.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ficus Audrey easier than a fiddle leaf fig?
Yes. It's less fussy about watering and light changes and drops fewer leaves.
Why is my Audrey dropping leaves?
Usually a recent move, a cold draft or overwatering. Keep it in one spot and check the soil before watering.
Is Ficus Audrey safe for pets?
No. The milky sap can irritate a pet's mouth and stomach.
How fast does it grow?
Moderately: a new leaf every week or two in a bright summer spot, very little in winter.
Can I prune it?
Yes. Prune in spring just above a leaf to encourage branching.
Ficus Audrey care kit
- Tropical Potting Mix: Our all-round Soil Bar mix for leafy tropicals.
- Moisture Meter Β· $14.99: Tells you when the bottom of the pot is actually dry.
- Plant Cleaning Gloves: The easiest way to dust big leaves.
- Pruning Shears: Clean, sharp cuts when shaping or removing leaves.
Bring your plant (or a photo) to 515 Chatham St #103 and we'll take a look. Open 11β5, 7 days a week, with street parking nearby. Get directions β
More plant care guides
Snake Plant Β· Monstera Β· Bird of Paradise Β· Fiddle Leaf Fig Β· Rubber Tree Β· Ficus Altissima Β· Ficus Amstel King Β· Dracaena Marginata Β· All plant care β