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Description
Ficus Vaccinioides, also known as the Australian creeping fig or small-leaved fig, is a species of plant in the family Moraceae. It is native to Australia, where it grows in the subtropical and tropical rainforests of Queensland and New South Wales. This plant is a popular species for indoor and outdoor decoration due to its unique features.
Taxonomic Information
Ficus Vaccinioides taxonomy is as follows:
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Rosales |
Family | Moraceae |
Genus | Ficus |
Appearance
Ficus Vaccinioides has small, dark green, glossy leaves that are ovate to elliptic in shape. The leaves are about 2-4 cm long and 1-2.5 cm wide. The plant has a creeping habit and can climb up walls, trees, and other surfaces. It produces aerial roots that attach to the surface it is growing on, allowing it to climb higher. The fruit of the plant is small and green, and it is not commonly produced in cultivation.
Care Guide
Ficus Vaccinioides requires special care to thrive. Here are some tips for its care:Water: The plant prefers to be kept evenly moist. Water it when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks.Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Ficus Vaccinioides is not frost-tolerant and is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ficus Vaccinioides is susceptible to common houseplant pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It is also prone to root rot if overwatered. To prevent pests and diseases, keep the plant in a clean environment, avoid overwatering, and inspect it regularly for signs of pest infestations.
Habitat
Ficus Vaccinioides is native to the subtropical and tropical rainforests of Queensland and New South Wales in Australia. In its natural habitat, it grows as an epiphyte, attached to trees and other surfaces, and can reach heights of up to 10 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ficus Vaccinioides toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets if ingested. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive problems.Q: How often should I prune Ficus Vaccinioides?
A: Prune the plant as needed to control its size and shape. It can be pruned at any time of the year.Q: Can Ficus Vaccinioides be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in bright, indirect light.Q: How fast does Ficus Vaccinioides grow?
A: The plant has a moderate growth rate and can grow up to 30 cm per year.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Ficus Vaccinioides:
- Ficus pumila
- Ficus lyrata
- Ficus elastica
- Ficus benjamina
- Ficus microcarpa
References
– “Ficus Vaccinioides.” The Plant List. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2810185- “Ficus Vaccinioides.” PlantNet. Retrieved from https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Ficus~vaccinioides- “Ficus Vaccinioides.” Gardening Know How. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/ficus/ficus-vaccinioides-care.htm