Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii — Bushy

Overview

Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii is a bushy shrubs in the genus Ficus, part of the Moraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii 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 natalensis subsp. leprieurii is a bushy deciduous cultivar of the Ficus genus, which includes evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs, and climbers with typically leathery leaves. This cultivar thrives in full sun and prefers sheltered, west- or south-facing aspects. It grows well in fertile, well-drained chalk, loam, or sand soils with neutral to alkaline pH, requiring moist but well-drained conditions. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is suited to architectural planting, city and courtyard gardens, as well as patios and containers. Propagation is achieved through hardwood cuttings, layering, or suckers, with interest mainly in spring and summer.

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 natalensis subsp. leprieurii 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 natalensis subsp. leprieurii

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 natalensis subsp. leprieurii?

Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii need?

Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii 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.

Is Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii hardy in the UK?

Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii?

Propagate by hardwood cuttings, by layering or from suckers.

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