Ficus microcarpa 'Moclame'

Moclame Fig Care & Identification Guide

Ficus microcarpa 'Moclame', the trendy Moclame Fig, is a highly robust, architecturally compact indoor tree. Loved for its dense, glossy, oval-shaped bright green leaves that cluster tightly along upright woody branches, it is exceptionally tough, forgiving, and easier to keep happy than the Weeping Fig.

Sunlight Bright to Medium Light

Watering Moderate (Let top 2" dry)

Soil Mix Rich Fast-draining Soil

Temperature 15°C - 26°C

Toxicity Toxic to Cats & Dogs

Botanical macro photography of Moclame Fig (Ficus microcarpa 'Moclame') - Plant AI care database

How to Identify Moclame Fig

Moclame Fig (Ficus microcarpa 'Moclame') 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: Thick, rounded oval leaves (resembling small spoons) that cluster densely along upright woody branches; trunk is often braided.
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Color Variations: Lush, glossy emerald-green foliage; new growth displays a bright, vibrant chartreuse-green hue.
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Common Confusions: Confused with Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig, which has slender pointed leaves, whereas Moclame has rounded, thicker leaves).

💡 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 Moclame 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 or summer 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 (15°C-26°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. Shake the trunk slightly in spring to stimulate trunk thickening.

Common Diseases & Treatment

Root Rot

Symptoms: Leaves turn yellow, drop off, and Central woody stems soften near the base.

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

Sooty Mold

Symptoms: Black powdery soot covers the leaves, usually following scale or aphid pest activity.

Action: Wipe leaves with soapy water, apply neem oil to eradicate pests, and improve air movement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Moclame Fig dropping some leaves?

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

Can I grow Ficus Moclame as a bonsai?

Yes! Its dense foliage, woody branches, and aggressive roots make it one of the absolute best varieties for indoor bonsai culture.

How fast does Ficus Moclame grow?

In bright indirect light, it grows moderately fast, making it easy to prune and train into a gorgeous lollipop tree shape.

Is Ficus Moclame safe for house pets?

No, it contains calcium oxalate crystals and irritating milky sap, which are toxic to cats, dogs, and other household pets.