Peepal Tree, Bo Tree
ficus religiosa
Also known as: ["Sacred Fig","Ashvattha Tree"]
Overview
A large deciduous tree with heart-shaped leaves and significant religious and cultural importance in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","medicinal use","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Ficus |
| Botanical Name: | Ficus religiosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate climates, or indoor pot in bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely needed in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours; tolerates direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light, protect from scorching, and adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, stable conditions with slight cooling in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Reduce feeding in fall/winter; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply to moist soil.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with leaf nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply hormone, place in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead/diseased growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune above leaf nodes, remove dead/diseased parts, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove old soil, trim roots if needed, use fresh well-draining mix, ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; essential for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation, allow excess to drain, and water in the morning.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, yellowing, or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Leaves may drop, growth slows, and roots become susceptible to damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots, and avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, ingestion of the latex, leaves, or fruits of Ficus religiosa can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats. The latex may also cause skin or oral irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe latex, leaves, and fruits of Ficus religiosa can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in dogs. The latex may also lead to skin or oral irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe Ficus religiosa contains a milky latex that can cause mild irritation and allergic reactions upon contact with mucous membranes or ingestion. The leaves and fruits may also cause mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Peepal tree toxic to pets?
A: Mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: What is the cultural significance of Ficus religiosa?
A: It is sacred in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, often associated with enlightenment.
Q: How tall does the Peepal tree grow?
A: It can grow up to 30 meters (100 feet) tall in ideal conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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