Ficus aspera — Bushy

Overview

Ficus aspera is a bushy shrubs in the genus Ficus, part of the Moraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Ficus aspera grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include architectural, city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants and mediterranean climate plants.

About

Ficus aspera, the mosaic fig, a plant native to Vanuatu in the south Pacific region. The mosaic fig is used as an ornamental plant. The fruit are cauliflorous (fruit forming from their main stems or woody trunks rather than from new growth and shoots). It is also called the clown fig. In the garden it prefers full sun and most soil types. In UK gardens it is hardy through an average UK winter (RHS H4). Suggested uses include architectural, city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants and mediterranean climate plants. It tolerates alkaline and neutral soils, moist but well-drained, well-drained conditions and west-facing and south-facing aspects. Plant in fertile, well-drained soil. Provide support.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Ficus aspera

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Ficus

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect: West-facing, South-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Ficus aspera size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Shrubs, Trees, Fruit Edible
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Ficus aspera

Propagation: Propagate by hardwood cuttings, by layering or from suckers
Pest resistance: May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, thrips, mealybugs and scale insects under glass
Disease resistance: May be susceptible to honey fungus

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Ficus aspera?

Ficus aspera prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Ficus aspera need?

Ficus aspera is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.