Jungle Vine, Misai Kucing
ficus deltoidea
Also known as: ["Oval Leaf Fig","Cat's Whiskers"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub or vine native to Southeast Asia, known for its medicinal properties and ornamental foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Ficus |
| Botanical Name: | Ficus deltoidea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high 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: As needed, but typically every 2–3 months during growing season.
- 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; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light, protect from scorching, and place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with fresh soil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable temperatures; use a humidifier in dry environments.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in winter; apply fertilizer after watering.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone (optional), place in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above a leaf node, and remove crossing or damaged branches.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier, healthier plants; shape as needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
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 outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, 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 the root zone directly, ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage root growth, allow excess water to drain, and water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water 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, stunted growth, or wilting due to extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and avoid drafts or sudden temperature changes.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and ensure consistent watering during hot spells.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Ficus deltoidea. The sap can also cause skin irritation upon contact. The toxicity is generally low but can be problematic in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Ficus deltoidea can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds in the leaves and sap. The latex may also cause skin irritation if contact occurs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicFicus deltoidea contains irritant compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact with the sap. The plant's latex is known to be mildly toxic, particularly if ingested in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ficus deltoidea safe for pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Ficus deltoidea?
A: It is traditionally used for treating diabetes, arthritis, and wound healing due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Q: How often should I water Ficus deltoidea?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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