Creeping Fig
ficus repens
Also known as: ["Ficus pumila","Climbing Fig"]
Overview
A vigorous, evergreen vine with small, heart-shaped leaves that climbs by aerial roots.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Ficus |
| Botanical Name: | Ficus repens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor hanging basket or trellis
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after rapid growth spurts.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates lower light but may grow slower.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; avoid direct sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; move to brighter spot in winter if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in low light or winter.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); thrives in warm, stable conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or vents; maintain stable temperatures; adjust watering for seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; air layering for larger stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with leaves.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks in water; 4–8 weeks in soil.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), container, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Shape to control growth; remove leggy or damaged stems; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too large to avoid waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; may need repotting if growth slows.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture but not waterlogging; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly 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; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth; may show signs of shock after sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or drop; growth slows or halts; risk of root damage in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, curl, or drop; soil dries out quickly; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Ficus repens. The sap can also cause irritation to the mouth and skin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Ficus repens can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in dogs due to the presence of ficin and other irritants. The sap may also cause oral irritation if licked.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicFicus repens contains ficin, a proteolytic enzyme, and other irritants that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation upon contact. The sap may also cause mild dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ficus repens toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How fast does Creeping Fig grow?
A: It is a fast-growing vine that can quickly cover walls or trellises.
Q: Can Ficus repens be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives indoors in bright, indirect light and can be trained to climb surfaces.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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