Hairy Fig
ficus tinctoria
Also known as: ["Hairy Fig","Hairy Ficus","Dye Fig"]
Overview
A species of fig tree native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, known for its distinctive hairy leaves and potential use in traditional dyeing.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Ficus |
| Botanical Name: | Ficus tinctoria |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room with high humidity, or sheltered outdoor location in warm climates
- 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 high humidity, especially in dry 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: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning in spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed for shaping or rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light to prevent leaf burn; place near east-facing windows for ideal light; shield from intense summer sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light with some morning sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 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 mild fluctuations but dislikes drafts or extreme heat/cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer, 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
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Apply hormone.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 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
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or branch junction.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead/diseased parts.
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 the main growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and root health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim damaged roots; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting; stunted growth; buds failing to open.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots in winter; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
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 parts of Ficus tinctoria may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation and oral discomfort due to the plant's irritant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Ficus tinctoria by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds in the plant. The sap may also cause oral irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicFicus tinctoria contains irritant compounds, primarily in the sap, which can cause mild to moderate irritation upon contact with skin or ingestion. The plant's latex is known to be a skin and mucous membrane irritant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested or touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ficus tinctoria toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How should I care for Ficus tinctoria?
A: Provide bright, indirect light, moderate watering, and well-draining soil.
Q: Does Ficus tinctoria attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light with so |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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