Mauritius Fig
ficus mauritiana
Also known as: ["Mauritian Fig","Mauritius Banyan"]
Overview
A large, evergreen tree native to Mauritius, known for its distinctive aerial roots and broad canopy.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Ficus |
| Botanical Name: | Ficus mauritiana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, humid room
- 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 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: Annually or as needed to maintain shape and health.
- 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 direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; monitor for signs of light stress.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and loam; 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 and sudden temperature changes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; air layering for larger branches.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, remove lower leaves, apply hormone (optional), place in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pot with drainage, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems, pinch back tips for bushier growth, remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead or diseased parts, and control size.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during active growth, make clean cuts, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the main growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly, avoid fertilizing for a month.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot with drainage, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly, avoid direct sun post-repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season, avoid wetting leaves
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away.
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 like compost for fertility; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or wilting due to extreme heat or cold.
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 conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; may drop flowers or buds; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate water but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, flush soil periodically, avoid contact with roots
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 ToxicCats are sensitive to the irritant compounds in Ficus mauritiana, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal and oral irritation upon ingestion. The sap may also cause skin or fur irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Ficus mauritiana by dogs can lead to mild to moderate gastrointestinal irritation due to the plant's irritant compounds. The sap may also cause oral irritation if licked.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFicus mauritiana contains irritant compounds in its sap and leaves that can cause mild to moderate irritation upon contact or ingestion. The plant's latex is particularly irritating to mucous membranes and skin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten or touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ficus mauritiana suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It is primarily an outdoor tree due to its size and growth habit, though it can be grown in large containers indoors with adequate space and light.
Q: Does this plant require special care?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging.
Q: Are the fruits of Ficus mauritiana edible?
A: The small figs are generally not considered edible for humans, though they may be consumed by wildlife.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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