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Description
Ficus Aurea, commonly known as the Florida strangler fig or the golden fig tree, is a species of fig tree native to Florida, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. This tree can grow up to 60 feet tall and spread up to 70 feet wide, making it an impressive sight in any garden or landscape. Ficus Aurea has a unique growth habit where it begins its life as an epiphyte on another tree, then sends down roots that eventually engulf and strangle the host tree. The tree’s bark is gray and rough, with a pattern of horizontal fissures that resemble a jigsaw puzzle.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
---|---|
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Tracheophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Rosales |
Family | Moraceae |
Genus | Ficus |
Appearance
The leaves of Ficus Aurea are large and leathery, with a glossy, dark green color on top and a lighter shade of green underneath. The leaves can grow up to 10 inches long and 5 inches wide. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that develop into tiny, edible figs that are about 1 inch in diameter. The fruit is sweet and juicy, with a mild flavor that is similar to that of a honeydew melon. The figs are a favorite food of birds and other wildlife.
Care Guide
Ficus Aurea is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as you provide it with the right conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of your golden fig tree:
- Water: Ficus Aurea prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer every two months during the growing season.
- Soil: Ficus Aurea prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a mixture of equal parts potting soil, peat, and sand.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full to partial sun, but can also tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Ficus Aurea is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ficus Aurea is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, but they are generally easy to control. Here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Scale insects: These insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause yellowing and curling. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
- Leaf spots: Fungal leaf spots can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to prevent further spread.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Make sure the soil is well-drained and reduce watering if necessary.
Habitat
Ficus Aurea is native to a wide range of habitats, including hammocks, swamps, and mangroves. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate some salt spray. It is a popular ornamental tree in Florida and other subtropical regions, where it is often used as a shade tree or specimen plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ficus Aurea be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Ficus Aurea can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location. However, it may outgrow its space over time and will need to be pruned or repotted to prevent it from becoming root-bound.
Q: How often should I prune my Ficus Aurea?
A: Prune your Ficus Aurea in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. You can remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches. You can also shape the tree as desired.
Q: Is Ficus Aurea toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Ficus Aurea can be toxic to pets if ingested. The sap of the tree contains a milky, white substance that can cause skin irritation and stomach upset if ingested.
Q: How fast does Ficus Aurea grow?
A: Ficus Aurea can grow up to 3 feet per year under ideal conditions. However, its growth rate will depend on factors such as soil quality, water availability, and sunlight exposure.
Related Plants
- Ficus Benjamina
- Ficus Elastica
- Ficus Lyrata
- Ficus Retusa
References
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. “Ficus aurea: Strangler Fig.” edis.ifas.ufl.edu/st013
- Missouri Botanical Garden. “Ficus aurea.”
- Gardening Know How. “Florida Strangler Fig Care: Growing Golden Figs In The Landscape.”