Goolar Fig
ficus racemosa
Also known as: ["Goolar Fig","Audumbar","Cluster Fig Tree"]
Overview
A large deciduous tree native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, known for its aerial roots and edible figs.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage","edible fruits"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Ficus |
| Botanical Name: | Ficus racemosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions, or as a large indoor plant in bright, humid spaces
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; cactus mix amended with compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape; light pruning can be done anytime.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning unless required.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may reduce flowering.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent leaf burn; protect from direct midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
rich, well-draining loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil mix every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.
Avoid placing near air vents; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes; air layering is also effective for larger plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem, cut below a node, apply rooting hormone, place in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or use sphagnum moss for air layering.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; air layering can take 2–3 months to establish roots.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting; monitor for signs of rot.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a node or branch junction; remove crossing or inward-growing branches.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or diseased branches, shape the plant, and encourage bushier growth; focus on maintaining health and aesthetics.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy or active growth, make clean cuts, remove debris after pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; needed if growth slows or soil degrades.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil mix, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, adjust care temporarily.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the root zone directly, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the roots, allow excess water to drain, and water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or wilting due to extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Leaves may drop or turn brown; growth slows or halts; risk of root damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if necessary; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; may drop flowers or buds; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted 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); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe latex of Ficus racemosa can irritate a cat's digestive system, causing mild gastrointestinal upset. The fruits may also lead to mild irritation due to their texture and potential irritant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe latex of Ficus racemosa can be irritating to a dog's gastrointestinal tract, leading to mild digestive upset. The fruits may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation due to their texture and potential irritant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe latex of Ficus racemosa contains irritant compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The fruits, while not highly toxic, may cause mild discomfort in some individuals due to their fibrous nature and potential for causing minor digestive irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ficus racemosa suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree and best suited for outdoor landscapes.
Q: Are the fruits of Ficus racemosa edible?
A: Yes, the figs are edible and used in traditional medicine and local cuisines.
Q: Does Ficus racemosa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and fruits.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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