🌿 Ficus Microcarpa ‘Moclame’ — Moclame Fig / Laurel Fig

Ficus microcarpa ‘Moclame’, commonly known as the Moclame Fig or Laurel Fig, is a refined and versatile indoor tree known for its smooth, oval-shaped leaves, compact growth habit, and elegant, softly domed form. Native to Southeast Asia and widely cultivated for its ornamental value, this cultivar of Ficus microcarpa is more tolerant and less fussy than Ficus benjamina, making it ideal for modern interiors, offices, and minimalist plant styling. Its dense canopy of glossy green foliage makes it a great choice for topiary-style shaping, small indoor trees, or lush shrub-like forms. With the right light and care, Ficus ‘Moclame’ offers year-round greenery and a calm, natural presence — perfect for creating a fresh, clean look indoors.

☀️ Light Requirements

• Indoors: Prefers bright, indirect light but will tolerate some direct morning or filtered sun.

• Too much sun: Prolonged harsh sunlight may scorch the foliage.

• Too little light: Can lead to sparse growth and leaf drop.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Ideal temperature: 18–26°C (65–79°F)

• Minimum temperature: Keep above 13°C (55°F); protect from cold draughts and heating vents.

• Humidity: Tolerates average indoor humidity but prefers slightly humid conditions. Occasional misting can help prevent leaf crisping in dry air.

💧 Watering Needs

• Watering frequency: Allow the top 5 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly and let excess drain.

• Winter: Reduce watering as the plant’s growth slows.

• Tip: Avoid letting the plant sit in water, and be consistent — sudden changes in moisture levels may lead to leaf drop.

🪴 Soil & Repotting

• Soil type: Well-draining, all-purpose houseplant compost with added perlite or orchid bark for improved aeration.

• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

• Repotting: Every 1–2 years or when rootbound. Choose a sturdy pot with drainage holes.

🌱 Feeding

• Growing season (spring–summer): Feed once a month with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser.

• Autumn–winter: Reduce feeding or pause entirely if the plant enters dormancy.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Pruning: Responds well to pruning. Trim to maintain size or shape, or to encourage bushier growth.

• Leaf care: Wipe leaves with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and maintain a healthy sheen.

• Growth habit: Naturally rounded and bushy, can be trained as a compact tree or fuller shrub.

🌾 Propagation

• Stem cuttings: Take semi-hardwood cuttings with a node and root in water or moist compost.

• Air layering: Effective for mature specimens.

🐛 Pests & Problems

• Common pests: Mealybugs, spider mites, scale, and aphids — more likely in low humidity or stale air.

• Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, sticky residue, or visible insects.

• Treatment: Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap and increase air circulation.

• Common issues:

  • Leaf drop: Often caused by overwatering, underwatering, or changes in light or temperature.

  • Brown edges: Usually due to dry air or inconsistent watering.

🧤 Toxicity & Safety

• Toxicity: Mildly toxic if ingested by pets or humans. The sap may cause skin irritation.

• Precaution: Keep away from pets and children, and wear gloves when pruning.

🏡 Indoor Care Highlights

• A graceful, manageable indoor fig that offers a neat alternative to Ficus benjamina or Ficus lyrata.

• Perfect for homes, offices, or commercial spaces with clean, bright design schemes.

• Works beautifully in decorative pots, planters, or grouped with other foliage plants.

• Easy-care and elegant — suitable for beginners as well as more experienced plant owners.

• A long-lasting, sculptural plant with timeless appeal.