About
A large, spreading evergreen tree to 10m in height or more, with leathery dark green, oblong or elliptic leaves to 15cm in length, at first rusty-hairy. Small greenish fruits ripen to greenish-brown.
About the genus
Ficus can be evergreen or deciduous trees, shrubs or climbers, with often leathery, simple, entire or lobed leaves and tiny flowers borne within a hollow receptacle which enlarges to form the fruit
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height8-12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toAustralia
ToxicitySkin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added fine bark chippings in full or filtered light. When in growth water moderately and apply a nitrogen rich fertiliser monthly. Keep just moist in winter. Plants benefit from regular misting and from being stood on a pebble tray, particularly in a warm dry atmosphere. Their main requirement is an even temperature, in winter not below 13°C and without the sharp fluctuations found in so many houses. Avoid draughty situations and keep them away from heater fumes
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed at 15 - 21°C in spring or by semi-hardwood or leaf-bud cuttings in spring or summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, thrips, mealybugs and scale insects under glass
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus