Rough Fig

ficus septica

Also known as: ["Philippine Fig","Stinking Fig"]

Family: Moraceae Genus: Ficus Category: Trees

Overview

A tropical fig species native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, known for its rough bark and aerial roots.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor location in tropical or subtropical regions
  • Suitable For:
    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 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 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 overgrown.
Care Details

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

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from harsh afternoon 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

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost occasionally.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warm, stable conditions.

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

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.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil; air layering for larger stems.

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

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

Environment

High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–80°F or 21–27°C).

Medium

Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or water for initial rooting.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot within 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pot, rooting medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective cutting of stems to desired length; pinch tips for bushier growth.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, remove dead/diseased growth, and encourage bushier growth; focus on structural improvement.

Tools

Clean pruning shears, sterilizing solution.

Checklist

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

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growth phase begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

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

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; water 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 thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
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; ensure proper aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot due to reduced water uptake.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop due to excessive transpiration and water loss.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; reduce or stop in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Ficus septica can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as spider mites or scale insects, affecting the plant's overall health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Ficus septica is often a sign of water stress, either due to under or overwatering, which can lead to root damage and reduced nutrient uptake, ultimately affecting the plant's vitality.

Leaf spots on Ficus septica may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis, premature leaf drop, and overall decline in plant health.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Ficus septica is commonly caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant if not addressed promptly.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are susceptible to mild toxicity from Ficus septica if they ingest the leaves or come into contact with the sap. The plant's irritant compounds can cause mild gastrointestinal and dermatological reactions.

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

if eaten

Ensure the plant is placed in an area inaccessible to cats. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary advice immediately.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Ficus septica by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds in the plant's sap. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion may cause discomfort.

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

if eaten

Keep the plant out of reach of pets. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian for guidance.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Ficus septica contains irritant sap that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's latex is known to contain ficin, a proteolytic enzyme that can induce mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
mild nausea vomiting skin rash itching
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves sap
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Wear gloves when handling the plant to avoid skin contact with the sap. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
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 septica suitable for indoor cultivation?

A: It is primarily an outdoor plant due to its size and growth habit, though it can be grown indoors in large containers with ample light.

Q: Does Ficus septica produce edible fruit?

A: The figs are technically edible but are often bitter and not commonly consumed.

Q: How fast does Ficus septica grow?

A: It is a moderately fast-growing species, especially in warm, humid climates.

Quick Reference
Family: Moraceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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