Ficus Audrey
Velvety oval leaves with pale veins on a smooth, pale trunk. The banyan tree of India, sold small, and the easier, better-behaved alternative to the fiddle leaf fig.
Ficus Audrey is the fiddle leaf fig for people who have killed a fiddle leaf fig. Same tree-like shape, a slightly softer look with velvety leaves and a pale trunk, and a far more forgiving temperament: it tolerates a move, a missed watering, and a slightly dimmer corner.
In its native India it grows into the banyan, a tree that covers acres. Indoors it will stop at the ceiling.
Light
Bright indirect light with a few hours of gentle direct sun. An east window is ideal; near a south window works. It tolerates medium light with slower, sparser growth. Rotate it monthly.
Water
Water when the top two inches are dry, about every eight days in summer and every two weeks in winter, then let it drain. It is less prone to sulking than the fiddle leaf but still dislikes soggy soil.
Soil and potting
A chunky, well-draining mix with some perlite or bark. Repot every eighteen months in spring, one size up.
Feeding
A half-strength balanced feed monthly in spring and summer.
Propagation
Stem cuttings in spring, rooted in water or damp perlite. Air layering for large plants. Gloves; the sap is sticky and irritating.
In a hot, dry home
A good tree for a dry home. It handles low humidity and AC well and only asks to be kept out of hot afternoon sun through glass. Wipe the velvety leaves gently; they hold dust.
Problems and fixes
Leaves dropping
Likely cause: A change in light or watering
Fix: Keep it in one place and water on a steady rhythm. It settles within a few weeks.
Brown edges
Likely cause: Underwatering or very dry air
Fix: Water more deeply; move away from vents.
Sparse growth
Likely cause: Not enough light
Fix: Move to a brighter spot and prune the top to encourage branching.
Ficus Audrey questions
Is Ficus Audrey easier than a fiddle leaf fig?
Yes. It tolerates lower light, drier soil and being moved. If you want the tree look with less drama, this is the one.
Is Ficus Audrey toxic to pets?
Yes. Like all figs, its sap irritates the mouth and stomach of cats and dogs.
How often should I water Ficus Audrey?
About every eight days in summer and every two weeks in winter, when the top two inches are dry.
