I am an elegant and popular evergreen tree, widely grown indoors and outdoors for my glossy, deep green leaves and graceful, often braided or sculpted trunks. I am highly adaptable and known for my air-purifying qualities and symbolic value in many cultures, representing peace, abundance, and resilience. My lush, dense foliage and easy-care nature make me a favorite in homes, offices, and tropical landscapes.

Native to Southeast Asia and Australia, I have been cultivated for centuries across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. I hold cultural and spiritual significance in many traditions, including Buddhism and Hinduism, and are commonly gifted as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.

I prefer moderate watering. Allow the top 3–5 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and leaf drop, while underwatering causes leaves to wilt and turn yellow. I thrive in consistent moisture but need good drainage.

I thrive in bright, indirect light but can adapt to medium light conditions. Direct, harsh sunlight can scorch my leaves, while too little light may slow my growth and cause leaf loss. I do well near east or north-facing windows indoors.

I flourish in warm temperatures between 18°C to 30°C. I am sensitive to cold drafts and frost, and temperatures below 15°C can stress me. Keep me away from air conditioning vents and chilly windows in winter.

Plant me in well-draining, rich potting mix. Choose a sturdy pot with drainage holes. If growing outdoors in tropical climates, plant me in a sunny to partly shaded spot with space for my roots to spread. I can also be grown as a bonsai.

Feed me monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce feeding in fall and winter when growth slows.

Botanical name: Ficus benjamina (commonly known as Weeping Fig or Benjamin Fig). Family: Moraceae. "Crystina" may refer to a particular cultivar or decorative variety prized for its compact growth or variegated leaves.

Toxic to pets. My sap contains compounds that can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, or skin irritation in cats and dogs if ingested or chewed. Keep me well out of their reach.

Excellent. I am recognized by NASA’s Clean Air Study for efficiently removing indoor air pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. My large leaf surface area helps filter and refresh indoor air.

I am a powerful air purifier, add natural beauty to interiors, and are believed to bring positive energy in Feng Shui. I am relatively low maintenance, adaptable to various light conditions, and can live for decades with proper care.

Susceptible to leaf drop due to changes in light, temperature, or watering routine. Pest issues may include spider mites, scale, aphids, and mealybugs, especially in dry indoor air. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering.

With proper care, I can live for several decades, both indoors and outdoors. I grow slowly indoors but can reach substantial heights in tropical outdoor settings. Regular pruning helps manage size and shape.