About
Ficus religiosa, the sacred fig or bodhi tree, is an evergreen to semi-deciduous tree to 30 m in the tropics with attractive, papery, broadly heart-shaped leaves with distinctive long, tapering tips, flushed bronze on emerging. Of great cultural and spiritual significance in Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism � Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment under a bodhi tree. An impressive houseplant or conservatory specimen where it may reach a fraction of its tropical height.
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 typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants, Trees
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toN India to SW China
ToxicitySkin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in full or bright, indirect light. Water moderately during the growing season and apply a high-nitrogen fertiliser monthly; water sparingly in winter. See ornamental fig cultivation
PruningNo pruning required, but overly long shoots may be shortened in late winter
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, thrips, mealybugs and scale insects under glass
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus