Ficus maclellandii 'Alii'

Alii Fig Care & Identification Guide

Ficus maclellandii 'Alii', the graceful Alii Fig or Banana-Leaf Fig, is a highly elegant, structural indoor tree. Loved for its long, slender, willow-like olive-green leaves that arch gracefully from upright woody trunks, it is exceptionally tough, adaptable, and far less prone to dropping leaves than the Weeping Fig.

Sunlight Bright to Medium Light

Watering Moderate (Let top 2" dry)

Soil Mix Rich Fast-draining Soil

Temperature 16°C - 24°C

Toxicity Toxic to Cats & Dogs

Botanical macro photography of Alii Fig (Ficus maclellandii 'Alii') - Plant AI care database

How to Identify Alii Fig

Alii Fig (Ficus maclellandii 'Alii') is a remarkable ornamental species widely appreciated for its unique aesthetic and structural foliage. Recognizing its definitive visual traits is key to distinguishing it from other similar plants.

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Key Visual Features: Long, narrow, strap-like olive-green leaves that resemble small banana leaves arching from slender woody branches.
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Color Variations: Glossy olive-green foliage; new growth displays a beautiful bronze-red tint before maturing to deep green.
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Common Confusions: Confused with Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina, which has much broader, teardrop-shaped leaves and is far more finicky).

💡 Plant AI Tip: Not sure? Take a photo with Plant AI to identify your houseplants instantly.

Complete Care & Cultivation Guide

Follow our detailed scientific care guide to keep your Alii Fig thriving and gorgeous all year round.

Water when the top 2 inches of potting mix feel dry. Forgiving of occasional underwatering, but avoid waterlogged soil.

Prune in spring to maintain a rounded, compact lollipop canopy. Wear gloves to protect against white sap.

Apply half-strength liquid foliage fertilizer once every 4 weeks in spring and summer. Skip winter fertilization.

Thrives in bright indirect light, but tolerates medium light better than most other Ficus species.

Well-aerated potting mix: 2 parts organic potting soil, 1 part peat moss, and 1 part perlite.

Propagated easily by stem cuttings rooted in water or moist potting mix under warm conditions.

Warm stable temperatures (16°C-24°C). Keep protected from freezing winter temperatures and cold drafts.

Repot every 2 years in spring. Ensure the container has excellent drainage to prevent soil stagnation.

Prone to scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites. Treat with organic neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Susceptible to root rot if kept in soggy, poorly drained pots.

This is one of the easiest Ficus trees to grow indoors. Rotate the pot 90 degrees weekly to keep it growing straight.

Common Diseases & Treatment

Root Rot

Symptoms: Leaves turn yellow, drop off, and roots turn black and mushy.

Action: Prune rotted roots and repot in a fresh, highly porous, aerated soil mixture.

Leaf Drop Stress

Symptoms: Green, healthy leaves drop off rapidly in response to a sudden change in environment.

Action: Avoid moving the tree, protect it from drafts, and keep watering consistent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Alii Fig dropping leaves?

Although tougher than Weeping Fig, it can still drop leaves due to overwatering, sudden drops in light, or cold winter drafts.

Does Alii Fig lose fewer leaves than Weeping Fig?

Yes! Ficus Alii is much more durable and far less sensitive to drop its leaves when moved or when the indoor environment changes.

How large does Ficus Alii grow indoors?

In bright indirect light, it can easily grow 6 to 10 feet tall, serving as a tall, elegant structural indoor tree.

Is Ficus Alii safe for house pets?

No, like other Ficus species, it contains toxic milky sap and calcium oxalate crystals. It is toxic to dogs and cats.