Plants

Ficus retusa care: light, water & problems

Scientific name: Ficus retusa · Common name: Ficus retusa

A small, glossy-leaved fig often grown as bonsai. The retail name ‘ginseng ficus’ is also used for Ficus microcarpa: check the label.

Editorial revision: 2026-10-01

Care at a glance

Light: Plenty of light without sudden exposure changes helps retain foliage.
Watering: Water according to pot moisture; a small bonsai dries at a different rate from a large pot.

A small, glossy-leaved fig often grown as bonsai. The retail name ‘ginseng ficus’ is also used for Ficus microcarpa: check the label.

Plenty of light without sudden exposure changes helps retain foliage.

Water according to pot moisture; a small bonsai dries at a different rate from a large pot.

Conditions vary with pot, season and location. Always check the mix and your plant's response.

Avoid cold draughts and record repotting or pruning to interpret its response.

Choose a stable draining pot and a mix that resists compaction. A larger container changes how long it takes to dry.

Feed during active growth only when light and root conditions are suitable; follow label rates.

If leaves drop after relocation, check light, temperature and roots before watering more.

No. This retail name is ambiguous and can refer to Ficus microcarpa.