Common
name: "Amstel King"
Latin name: Ficus binnendijkii 'Amstel'
Native
to: Man made hybrid. From the "Ficus of the
Future" line.
Growth habit: An upright tree to 15' in height and 8'
in width. The pictured plant is 6 foot tall and about 4 foot wide
with a braided trunk.
Flowers: No
Temps: Normal indoor temps. Keep from cold drafts.
Humidity: Not critical. Pests: Watch for scale.
Lighting:
Pictured
Houseplant:
14" Braided Ficus Amstel King
Houseplant
Cultural
information: "Amstel King" is a newer
introduction. It looks similar to Ficus
alii except it's leaves are wider
and glossier.. We think Amstel is easier to grow that Ficus alii.
Place your new tree in direct sunshine or very bright filtered
light. If your tree is against a wall... rotate your plant every
few days. Better quality plants will be potted in soil that looks
like peat moss. The plants in peat moss type soil will require
less watering than plants in a heavier hard type soil. Allow the
peat moss soil to dry down about 3 to 4 inches from the surface...
then water thoroughly with tepid water until water runs into the
drip tray. A small amount of water left in the drip tray will be
re-absorbed by the soil... don't allow your plant to sit in a
saucer full of water. Feed your plant monthly during the spring
and summer... bi-monthly during the winter.
