Ficus Audrey (Ficus benghalensis) / Mid-Century Ribbed Cast Concrete Bowl Planter / Original Weathered White Patina

FICUS AUDREY

Ficus benghalensis

Specifications

• Height: 1450mm

• Concrete Planter: 340mm

• Inclusions: Price includes delivery and professional installation.

ARCHITECTURAL FORM & HERITAGE

Native to the Indian subcontinent, where it is revered as the national tree of India, the Ficus Audrey (Ficus benghalensis) is a magnificent architectural specimen. In its wild habitat, it is a sprawling banyan tree capable of producing massive canopies supported by complex aerial roots. In interior cultivation, however, it is prized for its clean, striking, and minimalist silhouette. It features a smooth, light grey trunk that beautifully contrasts with its velvety, emerald-green leaves adorned with prominent pale veining. Widely celebrated in high-end interior design as a more resilient, forgiving alternative to the temperamental Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata), the Ficus Audrey brings a sophisticated, structural elegance to any modern space.

Planted in an Australian mid-century, ribbed cast concrete bowl planter with gravel to finish. Exposed root base.

PLACEMENT & LIGHT

Highly adaptable and structurally striking, it requires consistent, ample lighting to maintain its full canopy and vibrant leaf coloration.

• Indoors: Position in a high-light space that receives abundant bright, indirect natural light or gentle direct morning sun. Providing ample light is essential to keep the foliage dense, prevent the trunk from stretching, and maintain the bold contrast of its leaf veins.

• Outdoors: Thrives best in a sheltered courtyard or patio with dappled sunlight or part shade. Protect the canopy from harsh, direct midday and afternoon sun, which can scorch its velvety leaves.

SEASONAL CARE & WATERING

Cultivating Ficus benghalensis requires a balance of consistent moisture and excellent drainage. While it is more drought-tolerant and forgiving than many other broad-leafed figs, it still despises wet feet.

• Indoors: Water thoroughly every 7–10 days from late spring to early autumn, allowing the top third of the soil profile to dry out completely before watering again. In winter, reduce the watering frequency to every 10–14 days. Always empty drainage saucers within 30 minutes to safeguard its root system against rot.

• Outdoors: Water deeply every week during the peak summer heat, ensuring the planter drains freely. Reduce watering significantly in winter, adjusting for natural rainfall.

• Note on Botanical Behaviour: The leaves of the Ficus Audrey are uniquely pubescent (slightly fuzzy), which means they can collect household dust over time. Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth every few months to keep them clean and able to photosynthesize efficiently. While more adaptable than its cousins, it prefers stability—avoid placing it in the direct line of air conditioning vents or drafty doorways.