Hairy Fig

ficus hispida

Also known as: ["Hairy Fig","Velvety Fig"]

Family: Moraceae Genus: Ficus Category: Trees

Overview

A tropical fig species with velvety leaves and aerial roots, native to Southeast Asia.

Benefits & Perks

["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fast growing"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Rosales
Family: Moraceae
Genus: Ficus
Botanical Name: Ficus hispida

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room with indirect light
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Indoor Plant Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to maintain shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; protect from direct scorching sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

bright, indirect light

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move to shaded areas during peak summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, loamy potting mix with added organic matter

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 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, stable conditions; sensitive to cold drafts.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable warmth; protect from drafts.

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.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select healthy stem.
  2. Cut below a node.
  3. Remove lower leaves.
  4. Place in medium.
  5. Maintain moisture.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, water or soil medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective cutting of stems to maintain form; pinch tips for bushier growth.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, remove dead/damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the main growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure proper aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.

Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently during heatwaves.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; flush soil periodically.

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

Yellow leaves in Ficus hispida can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, often resulting in reduced photosynthesis and overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Ficus hispida may be caused by water stress, either due to overwatering leading to root rot or underwatering causing dehydration, both of which can severely impact plant health.

Leaf spots on Ficus hispida can be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Ficus hispida is often a result of excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Ficus hispida. The sap can cause discomfort but is generally not considered highly toxic to felines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy oral irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves sap
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Keep the plant out of reach of cats. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

The sap of Ficus hispida can irritate a dog's gastrointestinal tract, leading to mild digestive upset. While not life-threatening, ingestion should be avoided.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea drooling
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves sap
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Monitor pets closely if they have access to the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Ficus hispida contains irritant sap that can cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort and skin irritation upon contact. The plant is not highly toxic but can provoke adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
mild stomach upset skin irritation rash
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves sap
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Wear gloves when handling and wash hands thoroughly after contact. Keep away from children who might ingest plant parts.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Ficus hispida toxic to pets?

A: Mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How often should I water Ficus hispida?

A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week.

Q: Does Ficus hispida require direct sunlight?

A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.

Quick Reference
Family: Moraceae
Care: moderate
Light: bright, indirect light
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","indoor plant lovers","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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