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Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina) growing in South Florida
Grade Florida

Weeping Fig — South Florida Plant Guide

Ficus benjamina

Family: Moraceae · Tree

Legal status pending editorial verification. Confirm with your county before installation.

Landscape Uses

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Style Tags

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South Florida Growing Guide

Light Requirements

Full SunPartial Sun

Water Requirements

Low3/10

Once established (12–18 months), Weeping Fig is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Moderate water needs. Established Ficus hedges require less irrigation than during establishment. Overwatering in poorly drained soils promotes root spread toward moisture sources — including pool shells, foundations, and utility lines.

Soil and Fertilization

sandyloamlimestonefill

Fertilizer: Balanced slow-release tree fertilizer if maintaining

Schedule: February and September if maintaining existing Ficus.

Salt Tolerance

Moderate (4/10) — some protection from direct spray recommended
Mature Height
3060 ft
Mature Width
2040 ft
Growth Rate
fast
Water Demand
3/10
Florida Grade
Florida
Installed Cost
$
USDA Zones
10b, 11
FLEPPC Status
None
Iguana Rating
4/10

Where to Buy in South Florida

Find Weeping Fig at South Florida nurseries — check availability and pricing at nurseries near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Weeping Fig grow in South Florida?

Weeping Fig has a fast growth rate. In South Florida's warm, humid climate it typically establishes quickly with proper watering and fertilization.

Is Weeping Fig safe for pets?

Weeping Fig is not safe for pets. Latex sap is toxic to dogs and cats — causes vomiting and GI upset. Leaf sap causes skin irritation. Not the highest toxicity risk but advise pet-owning clients.

How much water does Weeping Fig need in South Florida?

Low water needs (3/10). Once established (12–18 months), Weeping Fig is drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental irrigation in South Florida.

Can Weeping Fig tolerate salt air in South Florida?

Weeping Fig has moderate salt tolerance (4/10). It can handle some coastal exposure but should be protected from direct ocean spray.

Is Weeping Fig available in Miami-Dade County?

In Miami-Dade County, Weeping Fig is classified as: allowed. Allowed but declining.

County Availability in South Florida

Miami-Dade County

Allowed

Allowed but declining. Not on prohibited list.

USDA Zone 10a–11. Tropical climate, year-round warmth and humidity.

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Broward County

Allowed

Allowed. Many Broward HOAs restricting or requiring removal of existing Ficus hedges.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical with warm winters and wet/dry seasons.

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Palm Beach County

Allowed

Allowed. Cold sensitivity (Zone 10b+) limits performance in northern Palm Beach County.

USDA Zone 9b–10b. Transitional zone with occasional winter cold in north.

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Collier County

Allowed

Allowed. Less commonly used in Collier — Clusia and Podocarpus more dominant.

USDA Zone 10a–10b. Subtropical Gulf Coast with seasonal flooding.

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Monroe County

Allowed

Allowed. Less common in Monroe County.

USDA Zone 11. Tropical maritime, highest salt exposure of all 5 counties.

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Full ordinance references and permit requirements available to Professional subscribers. Always verify current county requirements before installation.

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Ask about Weeping Fig

Get answers grounded in UF/IFAS research and South Florida landscape data.