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bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well) indoors; prefers a south-facing window. Can tolerate lower light than most Ficus, but the more light, the better the growth. Supplement with a grow light if natural light is limited.Light
Keep soil evenly moist but not wet during spring and summer. Reduce in fall and winter, watering only when the soil becomes slightly dry. Avoid cold tap water - let it sit in a jug to reach room temperature first, which also allows chlorine to dissipate.Water
Prefers moderate to high humidity (60-80%. Group your plants together, set them on a pebble tray with water, or run a humidifier nearby). Mist leaves several times a week with soft water, or set the pot on a pebble tray with water. Dislikes dry centrally heated air.Humidity
60-75°F (15-25°C). Bring inside before temperatures drop below 55°F. Hates drafts and sudden temperature drops.Temperature
easyDifficulty
Ficus retusa plant

Cuban Laurel

Ficus retusa

Easy

Cuban Laurel is a large tropical tree that has found a second career as one of the most popular bonsai subjects in the world, thanks to its dense canopy, small glossy leaves, tolerance for indoor conditions, and spectacular gnarled roots. The 'Ginseng' form — with dramatically swollen, bulbous prop roots — is sold everywhere as a ready-made bonsai starter. In the wild it grows to 80 feet with a broad spreading crown and aerial roots that can develop into secondary trunks.

Ficus retusa plant
Alexandre Albore (Ruthven), CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Ficus retusa plant
Alexandre Albore (Ruthven), CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Care Guide

How to grow Cuban Laurel

Light

bright indirect light (3-6 feet

Water

Keep soil evenly moist but

Humidity

60-80%

Temperature

60-75°F

Soil

Well-draining potting mix or bonsai-specific

Propagation

Stem cuttings in spring.

Common Problems

Scale insects and thrips are

Did You Know

Fun Facts

Ficus microcarpa (Ficus retusa) is considered an invasive species in Hawaii, Florida, Bermuda, and several Pacific Island groups — its tiny seeds are spread by birds and bats, and the plant can germinate in concrete cracks and eventually strangle host trees.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Toxic to cats and dogs if leaves are ingested. Keep out of reach of pets. The sap is also a skin and eye irritant.

Sources

  1. Ficus Bonsai Care Guide - Bonsai Empire (opens in new tab)Reference
  2. Ficus Bonsai Care Guide — Bonsai Empire (opens in new tab)Reference
  3. Ficus microcarpa - Wikipedia (opens in new tab)Reference
  4. Ficus microcarpa 'Ginseng' — NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (opens in new tab)Reference
  5. Ficus microcarpa — Wikipedia (opens in new tab)Reference
  6. Ficus retusa Fact Sheet — University of Florida IFAS (opens in new tab)Reference
  7. Ficus microcarpa 'Ginseng' - NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (opens in new tab)University Extension
  8. Ficus retusa Fact Sheet - University of Florida IFAS (opens in new tab)University Extension
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