What is a Ficus Tree? It also carries the common name Benjamin's fig. Ficus microcarpa (nitida) topiary style The genus contain around 800 species; from vines and shrubs to woody trees. Moreover, the vines here grow to the amazing lengths of 15 feet to 20 feet. Climatically speaking, the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean climates are most suitable for these trees. 9 Different Types of Ficus Trees (Plus Essential Facts). Now you know why the fig tree is revered and given so much importance across different religions and cultures across the globe. It is quite finicky, so be prepared for some specific care requirements. When grown outdoors in warm climates, this can become a large tree with glossy oblong leaves somewhat smaller than most figs (2 to 5 inches long). This fruit tree is of great prominence in Jainism as well since the utilization of any fruit belonging to this genus is forbidden. Bright green, heart shaped leaves mature to an oval dark green. Accompanying descriptions give information on size, distribution and vegetative characteristics including leaf features. It forms the same wide, dome-shaped canopy found in banyans and many other ficus species. Also commonly called the Australian banyan, this species of fig features huge, curving roots that form above the surface. The specific epithet salicifolia is derived from the Latin salix, which means ‘willow tree’ and folia, meaning ‘leaf’, thus ‘willow-leafed’.. They are also used in creating bonsai. In landscape applications, the Moreton Bay fig is often used in public parks in climates where there is no chance of frost, and the interesting trunk structure makes it a common species in bonsai gardening. Creeping FigBotanical Name: Ficus pumila. But it also can be grown as a free-standing tree; it is a recipient of the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society. The F. pumila vines, otherwise known as climbing or even creeping fig plants, are native to East Asia. Ficus is a genus of over 800 plants that belong to the Mulberry or Moraceae family (1). The trunks are massive, fluted structures with smooth light-gray bark. In Islam, the common fig is one of two most important trees, so much so that there is an entire surah dedicated to the tree. This plant will do very well in any climate consistent with the conditions of the Mediterranean or Middle Eastern region. Either small or large, 16 inches to 3 feet (40 cm to 1 m), its gnarly bearing looks quite like a miniature tree, which is particularly ornamental. Care guide for the Flame Tree (Delonix regia) Bonsai. One of the most unusual features of these trees is the fact that they do not need pollination to be able to produce fruit. Because of their growth patterns, these trees are categorized as epiphytic trees. are keystone tree species in tropical forest ecosystems and therefore, it is vital to include them in tree planting for forest restoration programs. Its fruit is also used as a dry food staple in places where food is either scarce or difficult to find in the winters. The traditional banyan tree commonly seen in landscapes is the Indian banyan, though the same name is also applied to other species of fig trees. The latex sap from this tree (also called the rubber fig) was once used in the rubber-making process, though these days most natural latex comes from the Para rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). Leaves vary in shape from long and narrow to more oval, and range from 6–24 (cm) (2–9 in) long and from 2.5–12 cm (0.98–4.72 in) wide. The common fig tree (Ficus carica) is the most popular species because its flowers do not require pollination to produce figs. Avoid contact with the eyes, and if picking fig fruit, make sure to wear gloves. It prefers moderate temperatures for development, around 60 to 72°F (15 to 22°C). Classification within the genus Ficus : Index to Ficus species pages: Identification Keys and Field Guides : Regional & country checklists of Ficus species: Books on … However, if you know how to care for a ficus tree, you’ll be better equipped with keeping it healthy and happy in your home for years. Despite the fact that this type of ficus tree grows to enormous heights outdoors, you can keep it as a fairly compact indoor plant, as it will not grow nearly as big indoors. The Buddha is said to have found enlightenment while meditating under a Ficus tree. There are over 800 species of trees in the Ficus genus. Ficus (Fig) species have a wide range of distribution and uses in Nepal. When we talk about the width of the plant, Ficus macrophylla trees cover a significant area due to the expansion of their leaves. These members of the mulberry family have around 850 different species and grow on all kinds of plants; trees, shrubs, vines, bushes, as epiphytes, and even as hemi-epiphytes. These wasps crawl inside the fruit through a narrow hole and lose their wings in the process, forcing them to remain inside and eventually die. The branches form roots that stretch towards the ground to penetrate and take hold, forming alternate trunks. The F.benjamina can grow at a rapid rate when grown in a well light habitat. Weeping figs, rubber trees, and fiddle leaf figs are especially popular as for indoor growing. There are three types of ficus - tree types, bushy ty Its appearance resembles that of a miniature tree or even a bonsai for that matter. Before you bring a ficus tree home, consider the following needs of this particular plant: A brightly lit room: These plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. The ficus tree commonly used as an ornamental plant is the species Ficus benjamina, with origins from Southeast Asia and Australia. We know that there may be between 800 and 2000 different species. Fig trees are popular for their unusual pollination process. The leaves of these trees are initially curled up. Ficus trees are known for their intensive root structures. Ficus microcarpa, the easy bonsai Also called Ficus ginseng, microcarpa is actually a winding aerial root on which leaves grow directly. Ficus, also known as “fig,” is a group of more than 800 tropical and semitropical trees, shrubs and vines. In greenhouses they are grown under 2000-5000 foot candles. In areas where fig trees cannot survive outside climates, they are common houseplants. As a houseplant,the weeping fig is notorious for being finicky. New leaves are reddish in color when they unfurl. But for all of their popularity, ficus plants are finicky. This species is a fast-growing woody evergreen vine that can attach itself to the walls of buildings and can be hard to remove (it's also commonly known as a climbing fig). Bark is grey, sometimes mottled, smooth with fine longitudinal cracks. Commonly referred to as fig, it became a popular group of plants thanks to the edible Mediterranean species called F. carica (2). Pinching off some of the figs when they are just developing will cause the remaining fruit to become larger. Ficus trees have had a significant influence on both cultural and religious practices and traditions. Ficus trees have been widely used in Southern California landscaping and as street trees for the past several decades. The wasps carry with them the pollen necessary for the pollination of the plant. It tends to drop leaves when moved or stressed in some other way, but new leaf growth will appear in time. Banyan trees are one of the species sometimes called strangler figs because of the way they grow—they can sprout in the holes and cracks of an established tree and over time grow around the trunk, gradually strangling it. This effect can make the tree spread out over quite a large area; some specimens are among the largest trees in the world in terms of canopy coverage, covering several acres. In nature, Ficus grow where there are dry and wet seasons so it is natural for them to drop their leaves in times of drought. Other Names: Climbing Fig, Fig Ivy and Creeping Ficus. Ficus fruits come in several colors including yellowish-green, copper, dark purple and bronze. Indigenous to Australia, these trees grow to astonishing heights, at times even over 200 feet in length. Ficus spp. In such cases, fig trees absorb the water and help cool the atmosphere of hot places. Upon unfurling, they display different shades of red which makes the tree look absolutely stunning. Although the fig tree is now widely grown globally, for both its delicious fruit as well as a decorative plant, it is still commercially grown mostly in its native areas. The fruits of this Ficus species grow in clusters on the trunk as well as on the branches—another common name for this plant is cluster fig. These long roots help the tree absorb water, and even draw water from under the ground when required. The F.elastica can grow as tall as 130 feet (40 meters) and features large, polished leaves that sometimes sport the same blotches as F. banjamina. The famous Bodhi tree under which Buddha achieved enlightenment was a Ficus religiosa.In their native habitats, the ficus is often seen as a landscape tree with hanging and buttressed roots and a magnificent crown. This is the ficus species that produces the edible figs sold in most stores—unless you live in the tropics where other figs are common. Most of the popular practices link the Ficus tree back to one of its native lands, Asia. The bark is light gray and smooth. Many species of Ficus have aerial roots and are epiphytes (plants that grow on other plants) or hemiepiphytes (plants that begin as epiphytes, but send down roots that eventually reach the ground). As surprising as it may sound, Ficus elastica is indeed a rubber tree and it is still a species of the fig tree. As the Latin species name tells you, the fruits are small for figs. While it is not possible to discuss each type at length in this article, we have curated a list of all the common and important types of Ficus trees. The Ficus macrophylal, like the F. benghalensis tree, too is a strangler tree. Trunks can be braided or plaited, which causes the wood to grow together over time. To keep your ficus from getting tall and lanky, give it medium to bright … This tree has naturalized in some regions of the tropical U.S. and is regarded as invasive in some parts of Hawaii and Florida, as well as in Bermuda and Central America. The F. carica is very rich in vitamins and minerals, which is why most of the people choose to eat its fruit not fresh but dried. Most Ficus species are evergreen; there are a few deciduous members in nontropical areas. You can find them in many different textures and heights, but weeping figs are among the most popular indoor trees. Jesus is also said to have cursed a fig tree for not bearing any fruit. This process allows the Ficus benghalensis trees to spread over and cover a large area. This plant needs a warm climate; temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can kill it. … This is a common street plant in tropical Asian countries, occasionally grown as a interesting specimen tree in large private landscapes. Photos depict the full tree, bark, fruit and leaf samples. Because of this, these trees are often preferred for plantation in places where shades are needed. Ficus benjamina is the most famous out of all the other Ficus tree kinds. Species of Ficus, such as the sacred fig trees of Pipal, Bodhi, Ficus religiosa, and the banyan fig have long been considered as holy trees. Their branches form roots, which ultimately extend towards the ground and help the tree become independent. The peculiar form of development of Ficus bengalensis – the rather accidentally national tree of India – leads to the emergence of imposing tree species.Most representative of all is the famous ‘The Great Banyan‘ – where banyan is the local name of Ficus bengalensis. This is the fig that most people find in most houseplant stores. The tree’s fruit, which is pear-shaped, is actually a fleshy hollow receptacle, known technically as a synconium. Flame Tree (Delonix regia) The Flame Tree is also called Royal Poinciana, fire tree or flamboyant tree. Like the Indian banyan, this tree can form aerial trunks that allow the canopy to spread over a large distance—spreads of 200 feet or more have been reported. Ficus trees have fleshy, convex fruits, containing seeds in nut form. Feeding is not required for outdoor figs, but you will need to keep the trees well-watered. This species, popularly referred to as weeping fig tree, is among a favorite ornamental choice because of its majestic stature, ease of reproduction and tolerance of a range of weather conditions. When you hear someone talking about a ficus houseplant, this is usually the one referenced. This type of Ficus tree is actually a cross of different types of Ficus trees that originally came from an Asian tropical forest. It has glossy green leaves of usually dark colors and is sometimes blemished. The most popular one for Bonsai is the Ficus Retusa. Learn tips for creating your most beautiful (and bountiful) garden ever. This tree can even thrive in very little light and scarce water. It is a tropical tree species from the legume family which produces large, fiery red or golden flowers that blossom from spring through summer. The figs include many broadleaf evergreen and deciduous trees, as well as shrubs and lianas. and rainforest tree species. When grown in favorable habitats, these plants can grow to a significant size and spread to quite an area providing shade for those in need.Ficus trees are known for their intensive root structures. Barbara Gillette is a Master Gardener, Herbalist, beekeeper, and journalist with decades of experience propagating and growing fruits, vegetables, herbs, and ornamentals. Similar Ficus varieties include; The Microcarpa, Tigerbark, Willow leaf, Golden Gate, Religiosa, Benjamina, and Taiwan. Ficus trees also hold great importance in Buddhism and Hinduism. The Ficus genus of plants includes more than 800 woody species found mostly in tropical zones, with a few extending into warmer temperate regions. In fact, it can reach as tall as 13 feet (4 meters). This Ficus tree category is considered to be trendy and is often used as an ornamental piece. A few Ficus species have atypical growth habits that can help you to identify them. Ficus microcarpa (nitida) 1000-litre. The F.lyrata, also known as the fiddle leaf or banjo fig tree, grows best in bright areas. Best offers for your Garden - https://amzn.to/2InnD0w ----- Ficus Tree Identification. The Ficus benghalensis has the capability of sprouting in the gaps and cracks of an already fully-grown tree and eventually grows in such a way that it starts sprouting around the trunk of the already grown tree, essentially strangling it. The common fig tree has also been cited in the Bible, and it is believed that Adam and Eve covered their bodies with leaves from a Ficus tree. The F. pumila is a drought tolerant species. They are able to do this by a process called parthenocarpy. Its vine can thrive in hot and arid habitats with little or even no water. This also helps to create an encouraging habitat for many other animals who then take shelter in the fig trees’ shade in times heat waves and dry spells. This plant is mostly used as an ornamental piece. The figs include many broadleaf evergreen and deciduous trees, as well as shrubs and lianas. What many people do not know, however, is whether these delectable fruits grow on trees, shrubs, bushes or vines. They are generally fast-growing, very vigorous plants that can be invasive when growing conditions are ideal. However, lack of knowledge about critical aspects of their reproductive ecology currently limits their use, particularly optimal seed collection times and potential interruption of their highly specialized pollination mechanisms. This is another strangler fig—in the wild, the seeds often germinate and begin growing in the crowns of other trees, then gradually smother the host. Figs are a widely consumed type of fruit, which are well received by both native as well as non-native people. Because these plants like to grow in free-drained soils, they can bear dry spells as well. Jun 24, 2014 - Ficus is commonly called Weeping Fig or simply Ficus. When grown in favorable habitats, these plants can grow to a significant size and spread to quite an area providing shade for those in need. The creeping fig (Ficus pumila) grows as a vine and will quickly cover any and all surfaces up to four stories. Some hardy cultivars of F. carica can be grown in zones 6 and 7. Leveraging the information above, you will be able to understand which types of trees are best suited for you based on the weather conditions of the place you live. The Ficus carica is normally known by its common name, which is the common fig. The Sweetness of Figs From Garden of Eden to Modern Day, 40 Species of Pines From Around the World, 12 Common Species of Magnolia Trees and Shrubs, 5 Different Species of Bird of Paradise Plants, 10 Species of Linden Trees for Your Landscape, 14 Unusual Aloe Species for Your Frost-Free Garden, 10 Great Jasmine Shrubs and Vines for Your Landscape, 9 Recommended Species of Serviceberry Trees and Shrubs. In other parts of the world, the tree is also known as the strangler figs owing to their way of growing. The Ficus genus of plants includes more than 800 woody species found mostly in tropical zones, with a few extending into warmer temperate regions. Ficus is a large genus of about 800-1000 tree and shrub species native to the tropics and subtropics that are often cultivated beyond their native range for their fig fruits or as ornamentals. This species of the genus Ficus, the Ficus pumila, is a fast-growing vine that is mostly woody in nature. Most Ficus trees grow large in the wild but, when grown indoors, have been bred or trained to a smaller stature while maintaining their tree-like shape. These trees grow up to the height of 10 feet to 50 feet in length, in their native areas. Ficus microcarpa (nitida) 500-litre. It has large leathery leaves, up to 12 inches long; the trunks are massive buttressed structures with rough, gray-brown bark. It may develop aerial roots that form buttresses to the ground. Twenty-five species of Ficus occur within South Africa, including one endemic, F. bizanae Hutch. It grows up to 3 metres tall which makes it a brilliant ornamental plant for rooms with tall ceilings. In cooler zones, it is sometimes possible to get potted figs to produce fruit, but they will need plenty of light and regular feeding. It develops into a small tree with oversized leaves. This is a deciduous tree or large shrub with smooth white bark and 5 to 10-inch-long lobed leaves. 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