Yellow Gem Tree

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Ships 1-3 days*

Size
$198.00

Small, 1 to 3 ft or 6 inch pot
Medium, 3 to 4 ft or 8 to 10 inch pot
Large, 4 to 5 ft or 8 to 10 inch pot
XL, 5 to 6 ft or 10 to 12 inch pot
XXL, 6 to 7 ft or 10 to 14 inch pot

Please Note: Sizing can differ between plant varieties. Please chat with us if you need clarification.

*Measured from the bottom of the pot.

 

The Yellow Gem Tree features vibrant, variegated leaves with bold yellow and green patterns, adding a splash of color and a touch of elegance to any indoor space. Its eye-catching foliage and compact form make it a stylish and dynamic addition to your home decor.

  • Botanical name: Ficus altissima 'Yellow Gem'
  • Other Common Names: Yellow Gem Tree
  • Grown in the USA

SUNLIGHT:
Prefers bright indirect sunlight

WATER:
Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Approximately every 1-2 weeks.

LEVEL OF CARE: EASY
The Yellow Gem Tree is generally easy to care for.

PET-FRIENDLY?:
This plant is best kept out of reach of pets.

Note: The Yellow Gem Tree's vibrant leaves may require some adjustment to lighting conditions to maintain their rich color and variegation.

*The pot pictured is not included.

PLANT DESCRIPTION & MATURE SIZE

The Yellow Gem Tree, a variegated form of Ficus Altissima, is a visually striking houseplant known for its vibrant green leaves accented with bold yellow patterns. A moderate-care plant that's adaptable to various light conditions, it not only adds a splash of color but also boasts air-purifying qualities. Ideal for indoor settings, it can grow up to 6-10 feet tall and prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its vivid variegation. Watering is typically needed once a week when the top inch of soil feels dry. Though beautiful, be cautious if you have pets, as it is toxic to both dogs and cats.

GROWTH RATE & MATURE SIZE:

Moderate growth rate; can reach up to 6-10 feet indoors.

WATERING & SUNLIGHT

Water when the top inch of soil is dry; usually once a week.

Bright Indirect sunlight for best variegation.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Yellow Gem tree typically reaches a height of around 6 to 10 feet when grown indoors as a potted plant. The ultimate height of your Yellow Gem tree can be influenced by various factors including environmental conditions, available space for root development, and pruning practices. Regular pruning can help manage its size and shape, especially when grown indoors.

The Yellow Gem tree is known for its relatively moderate growth rate. Under optimal conditions, it can grow several inches to a foot or more in height each year. However, growth rates can vary depending on factors such as environmental conditions, light levels, temperature, and care practices. Providing adequate water, light, and nutrients will promote healthy growth and help maximize the growth rate of your Yellow Gem tree.

Caring for a Yellow Gem tree involves several key steps to ensure its health and vitality:

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water your Yellow Gem tree when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely or allowing the plant to sit in water.

Light: Provide your Yellow Gem tree with bright, indirect light. Place it near a window where it can receive plenty of filtered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day, as this can scorch the leaves.

Humidity: These plants prefer moderate to high humidity levels. If the air in your home is dry, consider using a humidifier or misting the foliage regularly to increase humidity levels around the plant.

Temperature: Yellow Gem trees thrive in warm temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Avoid placing them near drafty windows, air conditioning vents, or heating sources that can cause temperature fluctuations.

Fertilizing: Feed your Yellow Gem tree with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization frequency in fall and winter.

Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain the shape and size of your Yellow Gem tree. Remove any dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves, as well as any leggy or overcrowded growth. You can also prune to shape the plant as desired.

Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests such as spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. If you notice any signs of pest infestation or disease, treat the plant promptly with an appropriate insecticidal soap or fungicide.

By following these care tips, you can keep your Yellow Gem tree healthy and thriving indoors for years to come.

Here are some factors to consider when deciding where to place your Ficus Yellow Gem:

Light Requirements: Yellow Gem trees thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a window where it can receive plenty of filtered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day, as this can scorch the leaves.

Temperature: Yellow Gem trees prefer warm temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Avoid placing them near drafty windows, air conditioning vents, or heating sources that can cause temperature fluctuations.

Humidity: These plants appreciate moderate to high humidity levels. If the air in your home is dry, consider placing a humidifier nearby or misting the foliage regularly to increase humidity.

Space: Choose a location where your Yellow Gem tree has enough space to spread out. Keep in mind that these plants can grow quite large over time, so make sure there is ample room for their size and shape.

Traffic: Avoid placing your Yellow Gem tree in high-traffic areas where it may get bumped or brushed against frequently. This can cause damage to the delicate foliage and disrupt the plant's growth.

By considering these factors, you can select an ideal location for your Ficus Yellow Gem, ensuring that it receives the light, temperature, humidity, and space it needs to thrive.

Your Ficus Yellow Gem requires well-draining soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Here's what you need to know about the soil requirements for your Yellow Gem tree:

Well-Draining: Ensure the soil you use for your Yellow Gem has good drainage properties. This prevents water from pooling around the roots, which can lead to root rot and other moisture-related issues. Sandy loam or a mixture of potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand works well.

Moisture-Retentive: While good drainage is crucial, Yellow Gem trees also prefer soil that retains moisture to keep the roots consistently moist. A soil mix that contains organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, helps retain moisture and provides essential nutrients for healthy growth.

pH Level: Yellow Gem trees prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. You can test the pH of your soil using a soil pH tester available at most garden centers. If necessary, you can adjust the pH by adding soil amendments such as lime to raise pH or elemental sulfur to lower it.

Container Soil: If you're growing your Yellow Gem tree in a container, choose a high-quality, well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for indoor plants or tropicals. Avoid heavy garden soils, as they can become compacted in containers and hinder root development.

By providing well-draining, moisture-retentive soil with the appropriate pH level, you can create an optimal growing environment for your Ficus Yellow Gem, promoting healthy root development and overall plant vigor.

Watering your Ficus Yellow Gem requires a balance to ensure the plant receives adequate moisture without becoming waterlogged. Here are some guidelines for watering your Yellow Gem tree:

Check Soil Moisture: Before watering, always check the moisture level of the soil. Insert your finger about an inch into the soil near the base of the plant. If the soil feels dry to the touch, it's time to water. If it still feels moist, wait a few more days before checking again.

Frequency: Generally, Yellow Gem trees prefer evenly moist soil, so water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. This usually translates to watering about once a week during the growing season, but frequency may vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and pot size.

Avoid Overwatering: While it's important to keep the soil consistently moist, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. Always allow excess water to drain away freely from the pot to prevent waterlogging.

Adjust for Environment: During periods of hot weather or if your Yellow Gem is placed in a warm, dry location, it may require more frequent watering to prevent the soil from drying out too quickly. Conversely, reduce watering during cooler months or if the plant is in a cooler, less humid environment.

Monitor Plant Response: Pay attention to how your Yellow Gem tree responds to watering. If you notice leaves turning yellow or dropping off, it may indicate overwatering, while wilting or dry, crispy leaves may signal underwatering. Adjust your watering frequency accordingly based on the plant's needs.

By monitoring soil moisture, adjusting watering frequency based on environmental conditions, and observing your plant's response, you can ensure your Ficus Yellow Gem remains healthy and thriving.

Repotting your Ficus Yellow Gem should be done when the plant has outgrown its current container or when you notice signs of root binding. Here are some guidelines for when to repot your Yellow Gem tree:

Root Bound: Check the roots periodically by gently removing the plant from its pot. If you see roots circling around the root ball or protruding from the drainage holes, it's likely root-bound and in need of repotting.

Growth Stagnation: If your Yellow Gem's growth has slowed, despite proper care and maintenance, it may indicate that the plant has exhausted the nutrients in its current soil and needs a larger pot with fresh soil to continue thriving.

Season: Repotting is best done during the plant's active growing season, typically in spring or early summer. This allows the plant to recover from any root disturbance and adjust to its new environment more easily.

Every Few Years: Even if your Yellow Gem doesn't show obvious signs of needing repotting, it's a good practice to refresh the soil and provide the plant with additional growing space every two to three years. This promotes healthy growth and prevents the plant from becoming root-bound.

When repotting your Yellow Gem tree, choose a pot that is one size larger than its current container, with adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Use a well-draining potting mix and gently loosen the roots before placing the plant in its new container. After repotting, water the plant thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away. Resume regular care and monitoring to ensure the plant adjusts well to its new pot.

Ficus Yellow Gem is a popular indoor plant prized for its vibrant foliage. However, yellowing leaves can indicate underlying issues that need attention. Here are some common reasons why your Ficus Yellow Gem might be turning yellow:

Watering: Ensure proper watering by allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause leaf yellowing.

Lighting: Yellow Gem ficus prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while insufficient light can result in leaf yellowing.

Nutrient Deficiency: Yellowing leaves may indicate a lack of essential nutrients, particularly nitrogen. Consider fertilizing your plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.

Pest Infestation: Check for pests such as spider mites, aphids, or scale insects, which can sap the plant's nutrients and cause leaf discoloration. Treat any infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Environmental Stress: Changes in temperature, humidity, or air circulation can stress the plant and lead to leaf yellowing. Ensure the plant is in a stable environment with consistent conditions.

Root Issues: Check the roots for signs of rot or damage. Repot the plant if it's root-bound or if the soil has become compacted, hindering drainage.

Disease: Leaf yellowing can also be a sign of fungal or bacterial diseases. Remove affected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant to discourage disease development.

Addressing these factors can help diagnose and resolve the leaf yellowing issue with your Ficus Yellow Gem. If the problem persists despite your efforts, consider seeking advice from a local plant expert or nursery for further assistance.

If your Yellow Gem tree is experiencing leaf drop, several factors could be contributing to the issue. It's essential to address these potential causes while providing optimal care to encourage healthy growth and minimize leaf loss.

Firstly, check the plant's watering regimen. Yellow Gem trees prefer consistent moisture but don't like to sit in soggy soil. Ensure the soil is well-draining, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing excess water to drain away.

Next, evaluate the plant's light exposure. Yellow Gem trees thrive in bright, indirect light. Position them near a window where they can receive plenty of filtered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day, as this can lead to leaf scorch.

Maintaining proper humidity levels is also crucial. Yellow Gem trees prefer high humidity environments. If the air in your home is dry, consider using a humidifier or placing a tray filled with water and pebbles beneath the plant to increase humidity levels.

Temperature fluctuations can also stress the plant and lead to leaf drop. Keep the plant in a location with stable temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Avoid exposing it to cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.

Regularly inspect your Yellow Gem tree for signs of pests such as spider mites, scale insects, or mealybugs. If pests are detected, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Finally, prune any dead, yellowing, or diseased leaves as soon as you notice them. Pruning can help improve air circulation around the plant and reduce the risk of fungal infections.

By addressing these factors and providing proper care, you can help your Yellow Gem tree recover from leaf drop and thrive in its environment. If you're unsure about the specific needs of your plant, don't hesitate to seek advice from a local nursery or plant expert.

The Ficus Yellow Gem appreciates moderate to high humidity levels but does not necessarily require misting. However, misting can be beneficial, especially in dry indoor environments, to help maintain adequate humidity levels. It's important not to overwater the plant, as Ficus species are susceptible to root rot. Additionally, providing proper air circulation around the plant can contribute to its overall health and vigor. If misting, focus on providing moisture to the air rather than directly spraying the foliage to avoid fungal diseases.

More Details

We process and ship your order as quickly as possible, typically within 1-3 business days. You will receive a shipping confirmation with tracking information once your item(s) ship.

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WHAT'S INSIDE?

Your order from Simply Trees is more than just a box of plants—it’s a carefully curated experience. Here’s what’s inside:

  • We hand-select our plants for premium-quality from top growers nationwide
  • Each plant is then cleaned, prepped, and pruned to remove any blemishes and encourage new growth
  • Expertly treated and inspected for preventative measure
  • The pot is wrapped in a durable plastic bag and secured with a zip tie; house plants get extra protection with a recyclable nursery bag
  • Your plant is strapped into our durable double-pane boxes, secured in place with a heavy-duty zip tie to ensure safe transit
  • A thank you card with a QR code leads to our guide on welcoming your new plants home

We take pride in making sure every detail is just right, so you can enjoy your new greenery from the moment it arrives.

Sustainable shipping, quality care

We've perfected the art of packaging and shipping plants and trees! Unlike most online retailers, we handle everything in-house—no third-party fulfillment. Our experienced team carefully packages your plants to ensure they arrive from our farm to your door in perfect condition.