Ficus altissima ‘Yellow Gem’
Overview
Uses: Houseplant, indoor tree, patio container plant, tropical landscape accent.
Benefits: Bold variegated foliage in deep green and creamy yellow tones creates a dramatic, tree-like presence indoors. Adaptable and relatively low-maintenance for its size.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 10–12 (grown as an annual in colder climates)
Sun: Bright Indirect Light to Partial Sun/Shade
Life Cycle: Tender Perennial
Growth Habit: Upright, Rounded — tree-form with a central leader.
Foliage Color: Dark Green with Creamy Yellow Variegation
Mature Height: 7–10 feet (larger in tropical climates)
Mature Width: 9–12 feet (larger in tropical climates)
Bloom Season: N/A
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
Striking variegated foliage and a graceful tree-like form make ‘Yellow Gem’ a standout statement plant for bright interiors.
This tropical selection produces broad leaves marbled in creamy yellow and deep green, creating bold contrast in living spaces and covered patios. Its upright growth habit allows it to function as an indoor tree, bringing height and structure without requiring climbing support.
While it can grow substantially larger outdoors in warm climates, it adapts well to container culture, making it a versatile focal point for homes, offices, and sheltered outdoor areas.
Care
Ficus altissima ‘Yellow Gem’ Care
Provide bright indirect light for best foliage color. Gentle morning sun is acceptable, but avoid extended periods of strong afternoon sun indoors.
Plant in well-drained soil and water thoroughly, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid consistently saturated soil.
Fertilize during active growth with a
slow release fertilizer
according to label directions.
Maintain indoor temperatures above 60°F for best performance. Avoid exposure to cold drafts or prolonged temperatures below 50°F.
Container Growing Notes: This plant is commonly grown in containers indoors or on patios. Containers dry more quickly than in-ground plantings and may require more frequent watering. Ensure excellent drainage and avoid allowing roots to sit in standing water.
Plants hardy in the ground may require winter protection when grown in containers in colder zones.
Size
What Size is the Ficus altissima ‘Yellow Gem’ for Sale Online?
Plants ship in a greenhouse-grade grow pot and are well rooted and actively growing at the time of shipment. Each plant is appropriately sized for its container. If you need additional details before ordering, please
contact us.
How Large Does Ficus altissima ‘Yellow Gem’ Grow?
When grown indoors or on patios, mature plants typically reach 7–10 feet tall and 9–12 feet wide. In tropical landscapes, plants may grow significantly larger over time.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
- Variegated Council Tree
- Variegated Rubber Tree
Can this plant be grown outdoors?
Yes, in USDA Zones 10–12 it may be grown outdoors year-round. In cooler climates, it is typically grown as a container plant that can be moved indoors. Browse more warm-climate selections in our
Tropical Plants
collection.
Is Ficus altissima ‘Yellow Gem’ suitable as a houseplant?
Yes. Its upright structure and bold foliage make it ideal as a floor plant in bright rooms. Explore additional large indoor options in our
Houseplants
collection.
How is this different from a Fiddle Leaf Fig?
Unlike the large, violin-shaped leaves of a fiddle leaf fig, ‘Yellow Gem’ features broader oval foliage with distinct yellow variegation and a more forgiving growth habit in bright indoor conditions.
