Sur Fig

ficus sur

Also known as: ["Sur Fig Tree","Ficus sur"]

Family: Moraceae Genus: Ficus Category: Trees

Overview

A tropical tree species native to Africa, known for its large, glossy leaves and fig-like fruits.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or protected outdoor space
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry environments
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape; after flowering if applicable.
  • 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 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.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering), leaf drop (stress), root rot (poor drainage), stunted growth (nutrient deficiency).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

bright, indirect light

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; move outdoors in spring/summer for brighter light.

Watering

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

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

Soil

well-draining, loamy potting mix with added organic matter

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

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh topsoil annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.

Keep away from drafty windows/AC vents; maintain stable temperatures; adjust care for seasonal changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer), none in winter

Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall/winter; apply after watering to avoid root burn.

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. Apply hormone.
  5. Plant in medium.
  6. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–80°F), indirect light.

Medium

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

Hormone

Recommended to promote root development.

Timeline

Roots in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.

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; pinch tips for bushier growth.

Pruning Plan

Shape plant, remove dead/damaged growth, encourage bushier form; done during active growth.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilizing solution.

Checklist

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

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage holes are clear.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; needed if growth slows or soil degrades.

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 deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting the foliage.

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; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting; stunted growth; bud drop.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or browning; vulnerable to root rot in cold, wet soil.

Solution: Move to a warmer spot; avoid drafty areas; reduce watering in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; may drop leaves to conserve water.

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

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

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); dilute to half strength; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Ficus sur may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's overall health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Ficus sur can result from water stress, either due to overwatering causing root rot or underwatering leading to dehydration, both of which impair nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Ficus sur may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and aesthetic damage to the foliage.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Ficus sur is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are susceptible to toxicity from Ficus sur upon ingestion, experiencing similar effects to dogs. The plant's sap can cause severe irritation to the mouth, throat, and gastrointestinal tract, leading to discomfort and potential systemic reactions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting drooling difficulty swallowing lethargy loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves sap
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access Ficus sur plants. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care promptly.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of Ficus sur by dogs can lead to gastrointestinal upset and oral irritation due to the plant's toxic sap. The proteolytic enzymes in the latex can cause significant discomfort and potential allergic reactions.

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

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of dogs. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Ficus sur contains irritant sap that can cause significant discomfort upon contact with skin or ingestion. The plant's latex contains proteolytic enzymes and other compounds that can lead to severe irritation and allergic reactions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
skin irritation rash burning sensation difficulty breathing nausea vomiting
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves sap
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten or touched

Handle with gloves; wash skin immediately after contact. Keep away from children and pets; seek medical attention if ingested.
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 sur toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: Does Ficus sur require a lot of maintenance?

A: It has moderate maintenance needs, requiring regular watering and occasional pruning.

Q: Can Ficus sur be grown indoors?

A: It is primarily an outdoor tree, but can be grown indoors in large containers with sufficient light.

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