Ficus montana (oakleaf fig) — Bushy

Overview

Ficus montana is a bushy shrubs in the genus Ficus, part of the Moraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Ficus montana 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 montana (common name, oakleaf fig) is a species of subtropical climbing fig plant. Leaves are 3 to 5 inches long. The leaves are shaped like oak leaves which gives its common name. It is grown as a houseplant, in offices and in shopping malls. It is native to Bangladesh, Borneo, Jawa, Laos, Lesser Sunda Is. and other regions. 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 montana

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 montana 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 montana

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 montana?

Ficus montana prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Ficus montana need?

Ficus montana 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.