Warty Fig

ficus callosa

Also known as: ["Warty Fig","Ficus callosa"]

Family: Moraceae Genus: Ficus Category: Trees

Overview

A species of fig tree native to Southeast Asia, characterized by its warty bark and fig-like fruits.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor location
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity
  • 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 can be done anytime; major pruning is best in late winter or early spring.
  • 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; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to direct sunlight if moving from low light; protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth may indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

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

Watering

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

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, avoid letting the plant sit in water.

Soil

well-draining, fertile potting mix

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

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates a range but thrives in warm, stable conditions.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts and extreme heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on plant growth.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in water or soil; air layering is also effective for larger plants.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select a healthy stem, cut below a node, remove lower leaves, place in medium, keep moist and warm.

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

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional root hormone application.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots may appear in 3–6 weeks; new growth typically emerges after 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; change water regularly if using water propagation.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; avoid leaving stubs.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools, prune selectively, remove dead/diseased parts, shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.

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, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly.

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, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant's roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite, coarse sand, or orchid bark to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or wilting can indicate temperature stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or damage; prolonged cold may lead to root rot.

Solution: Keep the plant away from drafty windows or cold spots; provide a heat source if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); reduce watering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; may lead to reduced vigor.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering to combat heat stress.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before applying, avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

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

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

Leaf spots on Ficus callosa may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis, premature leaf drop, and weakened plant vigor.

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

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Ficus callosa. The irritant latex can also cause skin irritation upon contact.

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

if ingested

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Ficus callosa can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of irritant latex. Skin irritation may also occur if the latex contacts the skin.

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

if ingested

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

Ficus callosa contains irritant latex that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The latex may also cause skin irritation upon contact.

⚠️ Symptoms:
mild stomach upset diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
latex leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if ingested

Avoid ingestion and direct skin contact with the latex. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the plant.
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 callosa toxic to pets?

A: Mildly toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: What are the common problems with Ficus callosa?

A: Leaf spots and stunted growth.

Q: Does Ficus callosa attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

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