Ficus glaberrima — Bushy

Overview

Ficus glaberrima is a bushy shrubs in the genus Ficus, part of the Moraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Ficus glaberrima 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 glaberrima is an Asian species of fig tree in the family Moraceae. The native range of this species is India, S. China and tropical Asia: Indo-China to the Lesser Sunda Islands (but not Borneo, Sulawesi or the Philippines). 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 glaberrima

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 glaberrima 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 glaberrima

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 glaberrima?

Ficus glaberrima prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Ficus glaberrima need?

Ficus glaberrima 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.