About
Ficus pumila, the creeping fig, is a vigorous, self-clinging evergreen climber or trailer to 3 m, with small, broadly oval, rich-green leaves to 5 cm on climbing shoots and larger, leathery, narrower leaves on mature, non-climbing shoots. Purple figs to 5 cm long may form on mature shoots. Widely used as a wall-covering plant in mild gardens and as a trailing indoor plant.
About the genus
Ficus, the figs, are a large, diverse genus of evergreen or deciduous trees, shrubs and climbers producing leathery leaves and tiny flowers inside a hollow receptacle that develops into the characteristic fig fruit. They include important food crops, dramatic ornamental specimens and popular houseplants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeClimber Wall Shrub, Houseplants
HabitClimbing
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toE Asia
ToxicitySkin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow outdoors in humus-rich moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade with protection from wind in a frost-free area. Grow under glass in peat-free, loam-based compost in full or filtered light. See ornamental fig cultivation for more advice
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed, leaf-bud or semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, thrips, mealybugs and scale insects under glass
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus