Ficus microcarpa

This tree is popular in many tropical and subtropical regions for its dense green leaves and beautiful shape, as well as its use in a variety of landscape and horticultural applications.

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Scientific Name : Ficus microcarpa

Family : Moraceae

Common Name : Chinese Banyan, Malayan Banyan, Indian Laurel, Curtain Fig, Gajumaru, Laurel Fig, Small-Fruited Fig, 榕树, 马来亚榕

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CLASSIFICATIONS AND CHARACTERISTICS

Plant Growth Form : Tree

Lifespan (in Indonesia) : Perennial

BIOGEOGRAPHY

Native Distribution : Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, India, Papua New Guinea, Taiwan, Thailand, southern China, and northern Australia.

Native Habitat : Terrestrial (Primary Rainforest, Secondary Rainforest, Monsoon Forest, Coastal Forest, Freshwater Swamp Forest, Riverine, Disturbed Area / Open Ground).

DESCRIPTION AND ETHNOBOTANY

Growth Form

Ficus microcarpa can grow into a large tree reaching a height of 15-25 meters (50-82 feet). This tree has a thick trunk and can produce aerial roots hanging from its branches.

Foliage

Ficus microcarpa has dense and shiny leaves, with oval or egg-shaped leaves. The leaves are dark green, the edges are flat or wavy.

Flowers

Ficus microcarpa flowers have funnel-shaped petals with a green color.

Fruit

The fruit is small and round (macrocarpa means "small fruit" in Latin), green when young, and turning purple or black when ripe.

Habitat

It grows abundantly in tropical and subtropical rainforests, and is often found in cities as an ornamental or shade plant.

LANDSCAPING FEATURES

Desirable Plant Features : Ornamental Fruits

Landscape Uses                  : General, Parks & Gardens, Coastal, Hedge / Screening, Topiary, Suitable for Bonsai.

FAUNA, POLLINATION AND DISPERSAL

Fauna Pollination                 : Attracts Bird (Fruits) and Attracts Butterfly.

Dispersal Associated

Fauna

PLANT CARE AND PROPAGATION

Light Preference : Full Sun, Semi-Shade

Water Preference : Moderate Water

Plant Growth Rate : Moderate