Care of the tree Ficus salicaria or Willow Leaf Fig |
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The genus Ficus, family Moraceae, includes 900 species of trees, shrubs, and climbing plants. Some species are: Ficus salicaria, Ficus rubiginosa, Ficus pumila, Ficus lyrata, Ficus ingens, Ficus deltoidea, Ficus carica, Ficus binnendijkii, Ficus elastica, Ficus benjamina, Ficus radicans, Ficus retusa, Ficus cyathistipula. Common name: Willow Leaf Fig. This species is native to Asia. They are small trees with a wide crown that can produce several trunks and reach 10 meters (32.8 feet) in height. The leathery, glossy leaves are narrow and lanceolate and spiral on the branches. The reddish fruits are quite decorative; appear in summer. These easy-to-grow plants are used as bonsai, as indoor plants in large pots, and as isolated specimens in gardens in tropical or subtropical regions. Ficus salicaria needs a semi-shade exposure. It appreciates the direct sun in the first hours of the day; avoid the sun's rays in the central hours of the day in summer. It does not resist frost; it does not like cold below 12 ºC (53.6 ºF). The soil should be light, well drained, and contain organic matter that retains moisture. Transplant every 3 years in spring. Water regularly waiting for the substrate surface to dry. In summer, the leaves must be sprayed with lime-free water every 2 days. Fertilize monthly with mineral fertilizer in spring, summer and fall. Willow Leaf Fig does not need pruning. The roots and the crown should be slightly pruned at the time of transplanting. Ficus salicaria is a quite resistant plant to pests and diseases if humidity and ventilation are adequate. Willow Leaf Fig propagates by seeds sown in spring but it's a slow process. Propation by cuttings is faster. |
Images of the tree Ficus salicaria or Willow Leaf Fig |
 Ficus salicaria  Ficus salicaria  Ficus salicaria |