Velvet Fig
ficus aspera
Also known as: ["Velvet-leaf Fig","Ficus superba"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen shrub or small tree with large, velvety leaves and distinctive white veins.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Ficus |
| Botanical Name: | Ficus aspera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright room or sheltered outdoor spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry environments, less often in humid climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- 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; light pruning can be done quarterly.
- 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; adjust to morning sun and afternoon shade outdoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light, tolerates partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure proper drainage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with peat or coco coir
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates 50–90°F (10–32°C) but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; keep away from vents; maintain stable warmth.
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.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply hormone (optional).
- Place in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pot, plastic bag or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster roots.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch tips for bushiness; cut just above leaf nodes; remove crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove leggy growth, and encourage bushier form; prune to control size.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in active growth; remove dead/damaged growth; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
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.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold), leaf drop (heat), stunted growth (extremes).
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, and reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and dehydration despite soil moisture due to rapid transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, mist leaves, and water early in the day.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; 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 that ingest Ficus aspera may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation due to the plant's sap. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion should still be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Ficus aspera by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds in the plant's sap. The effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFicus aspera contains irritant sap that can cause skin irritation upon contact and mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The plant's latex is known to be a skin and mucous membrane irritant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ficus aspera toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Ficus aspera?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically once a week.
Q: Does Ficus aspera need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright indirect light, tolerat |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
