White Fig
ficus virens
Also known as: ["White Fig","White-leaved Fig","Ghost Fig"]
Overview
A large evergreen tree native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Australia, known for its distinctive white or pale bark and aerial roots.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Ficus |
| Botanical Name: | Ficus virens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor or outdoor pot, or as a specimen tree in tropical gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, less often 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: high
- 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 partial shade but may drop leaves in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, protect from direct sun to prevent scorching, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; move outdoors in warm months.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in low light.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix
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); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable temperatures; protect from heat sources.
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 with leaf nodes, air layering for larger specimens.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, apply hormone, place in medium, maintain humidity, 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), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or sphagnum moss for air layering.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back to encourage branching, remove crossing or damaged stems.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead or overgrown branches.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, disinfectant, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy or active growth, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season 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; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot with drainage, trim roots if necessary, use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even saturation, allow excess water to drain, 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 coarse sand for drainage, incorporate organic matter for fertility, ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to sudden changes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or browning; susceptible to root rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, protect from drafts, reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply during active growth, stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Ficus virens. The sap contains compounds that can cause mild discomfort and localized reactions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Ficus virens can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds in the leaves and sap. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion may cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFicus virens contains irritant sap that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The toxic compounds are primarily proteolytic enzymes and latex, which can induce localized inflammation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ficus virens suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: While it can be grown indoors in large containers, it is primarily an outdoor tree due to its size and growth habit.
Q: Does Ficus virens produce edible fruit?
A: Yes, the tree produces small figs that are edible but often not cultivated for consumption.
Q: How fast does Ficus virens grow?
A: It is a moderately fast-growing tree, especially in warm, humid climates.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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