Ficus Fistulosa

Description

Ficus Fistulosa, commonly known as the Indian Laurel fig or White Fig, belongs to the plant family Moraceae. It is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall. The tree is native to India and is also found in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. It has a straight trunk with a spreading crown and a dense canopy of branches and leaves. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped with a pointed tip. They are 5-10 cm long and arranged alternately on the branches. The trunk and branches exude a milky sap when cut or damaged.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Ficus Fistulosa has a dense canopy of branches and leaves that provides ample shade. The tree has a straight trunk that is greyish-brown in color and has a smooth texture. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped with a pointed tip. They are arranged alternately on the branches and have a distinct midrib. The fruit of the tree is a fig that is 2-3 cm long and green in color when immature. The fig turns yellowish-white when ripe and has a sweet taste. The bark of the tree is smooth and greyish-brown in color.

Care Guide

Ficus Fistulosa is a hardy tree that requires little maintenance. Here are some tips to care for your Ficus Fistulosa:

Water

Water the tree regularly during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to prevent waterlogging.

Fertilization

Ficus Fistulosa does not require much fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year during the growing season.

Soil

The tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.

Sunlight

Ficus Fistulosa prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not produce as much fruit.

Hardiness Zones

The tree is hardy to USDA zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Ficus Fistulosa is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:

Mealybugs

Mealybugs are small, white insects that feed on the sap of the tree. They can be controlled by spraying insecticidal soap on the tree.

Scales

Scales are small, oval-shaped insects that feed on the sap of the tree. They can be controlled by spraying horticultural oil on the tree.

Leaf Spot

Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. It can be controlled by removing infected leaves and spraying a fungicide on the tree.

Habitat

Ficus Fistulosa is native to India and is also found in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. It grows in a wide range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands. The tree prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.

Question and Answer

Q: How big can Ficus Fistulosa grow?

A: Ficus Fistulosa can grow up to 15 meters tall.

Q: Does Ficus Fistulosa require much fertilization?

A: No, Ficus Fistulosa does not require much fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year during the growing season.

Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Ficus Fistulosa?

A: Mealybugs, scales, and leaf spot are some common pests and diseases that affect Ficus Fistulosa.

Q: Where is Ficus Fistulosa native to?

A: Ficus Fistulosa is native to India.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Ficus Fistulosa:

• Ficus Benghalensis
• Ficus Carica
• Ficus Elastica
• Ficus Microcarpa

References

• https://www.natureloveyou.sg/Ficus%20fistulosa/Main.html
• https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/ficus-fistulosa
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ficus_fistulosa