- Large, Colorful Foliage
- Light Preference/Tolerated (Bright Indirect Light, Medium Light)
- Average Watering Needs
- Mature Height 10 Feet
The Yellow Gem Ficus or Ficus altissima is all about foliage. This compact tree-like houseplant has broad, oval-shaped leaves with a rubbery texture. The foliage has a pronounced midrib and veining in yellow. The central part of the leaf is bright green, and the margins have variegated patches of light green. Increase the light exposure to deepen the green hues.
Best Locations For Growing Yellow Gem Ficus
This plant can grow rather tall, so an area needing lovely variegated greenery is a good spot. The Yellow Gem Ficus is not as particular about placement as other Ficus cultivars, but an east-facing window will typically provide good light. A spot with average humidity and a consistent temperature is also ideal.
Yellow Gem Ficus Sunlight Requirements
Direct sunlight will help Yellow Gem develop stunning variegation, but this plant can only handle direct sunlight in limited quantities. Bright, direct light early in the morning is beneficial, but bright, indirect light is always a safe bet. Monitor the leaves for signs of scorching if the plant receives direct sunlight, and be prepared to move the plant if necessary.
Yellow Gem Ficus Care
This beauty likes warm conditions, approximating average room temperature. Avoid placement near areas that may experience temperature fluctuations, like near vents and exterior doors.
Watering Yellow Gem Ficus
Yellow Gem Ficus is more sensitive to overwatering than other members of the Ficus family. Keep the soil moist and water when the top few inches of soil are dry, but allow excess water to drain because this plant does not tolerate standing water. Depending on the conditions, this Ficus will need water about weekly during the growing season and less often during the winter. Unlike other Ficus varieties, Yellow Gem prefers average humidity.
Feeding Yellow Gem Ficus
Feed Yellow Gem Ficus once per month during the growing season. Balanced, water-soluble fertilizer will keep the plant looking full. This plant does not need to be fed when it is dormant.
Yellow Gem Ficus Information
Light Exposure: Bright Indirect Light, Medium Light |
Care Requirements: Easy |
Watering Requirements: Average - When the top 2 inches of the soil dries out. |
Pet Friendly: No |
Kid Friendly: No |
Air Purifier: Moderate |
Habit: Upright |
Growth Rate: Slow |
Mature Height: 10 feet |
Mature Spread: 3-8 feet |
Flowering: No |
Flower Color(s): None |
Flower Shade/Description: Grown for Foliage |
Fragrant: |
Foliage Type: Variegated |
Foliage Color(s): Green, Yellow |
Foliage Description: Bright Yellow Leaves Variegated with Patches Of Light and Dark Green |
Temperature: Above 70 °F (Above 21 ) |
Humidity: Average (40% - 60%) |
Common Name: Yellow Gem Ficus |
Other Name(s): Lofty Fig, False Banyan, Council Tree |
Scientific Name: Ficus altissima 'Yellow Gem' |
Plant Type: House Plant |
- SKU:
- Ficus_Yellow.Gem-HP
Container Sizes
Please Note: The pictures below are to give a general representation of the different container sizes. The actual size/ages of plants are estimates and will vary based on; type of plant, time of year, last pruning & many other factors.
For more detailed information, please click here.
Plant Addict Guarantee (Included On All Plant Orders)
Plant Addicts Warranty - 1 Year (Extra Purchase Required)

Guide: How to Care for Your New Plant(s)

Planter Shipping
Standard Colors: 2-3 business days
Special Order Colors: 8 weeks - this is due to the planter being custom made with the color(s) of your choice
Please Note: On special orders there can not be any cancellations
Plant Shipping
Time of Order:
Summer Shipping
- If there is extreme heat we’ll delay shipping.
- We’ll have to review what areas the plants are traveling through along with your location
Once your plant is shipped you’ll receive an email with tracking information. Depending on the above criteria we’ll ship your plant(s) towards beginning of the following week from your order. We put together this helpful guide of what to do when you receive your plants in the mail.
It is important to know that all of our plants are clearly labeled for which growing zones the plant can survive in. The plants are thoroughly trialed and tested in every growing zone before we state the plant can grow in a zone. Again, our #1 priority is to ship the plants to you healthy and ready to thrive in your location. So we will do everything in our power to do so.