Vasta Fig
ficus vasta
Also known as: ["Vasta Fig","Wild Fig"]
Overview
A tropical fig species native to Southeast Asia, known for its distinctive aerial roots 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 vasta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, humid room or sheltered outdoor location
- 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 moderate 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: Annually or as needed to control size and shape.
- 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; adjust to partial shade in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light to avoid scorching; place in filtered light outdoors or near a south-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light, tolerates partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-draining, loamy potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
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 to prevent stress.
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.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply hormone (optional), place in medium, maintain moisture and humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–80°F or 21–27°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture for successful rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown branches to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, 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 crowded, 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, 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 directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, and allow excess water to drain completely to prevent waterlogging.
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 to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting; stunted growth in 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 cold drafts or sudden temperature changes.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently to compensate for evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid winter feeding.
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
ToxicFicus vasta is toxic to cats, with ingestion leading to gastrointestinal irritation and potential systemic effects. The plant's sap can cause severe oral and skin irritation in felines, necessitating prompt veterinary attention. Cats may be particularly sensitive to the plant's toxic compounds, which can result in prolonged discomfort and health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Ficus vasta can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and oral irritation. The plant's sap contains compounds that are toxic to canines, potentially causing significant discomfort and requiring veterinary intervention. The effects can range from mild irritation to more serious systemic issues depending on the amount ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicFicus vasta contains irritant compounds that can cause significant gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's sap is particularly potent, capable of inducing severe reactions in sensitive individuals. Physiologically, ingestion can lead to inflammation of the digestive tract, while skin contact may result in dermatitis.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ficus vasta toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Ficus vasta?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Ficus vasta require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, but protection from intense afternoon sun is recommended.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright indirect light, tolerat |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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