Contents
Description
Ficus Pertusa, commonly known as the Creeping Fig, is a species of evergreen climbing plant that belongs to the mulberry family. This plant is native to East Asia and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. It has small, leathery leaves that are arranged alternately on the stems. The leaves are dark green and glossy, making the plant a popular choice for indoor and outdoor decoration. The Creeping Fig is an easy-to-grow plant that can be trained to climb walls, trellises, and fences. It has numerous aerial roots that help it cling to surfaces and grow upwards.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Rosales |
Family | Moraceae |
Genus | Ficus |
Appearance
The Creeping Fig has small, leathery leaves that are approximately 2-3 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a slightly heart-shaped base. The stems of the plant are thin and wiry, with numerous aerial roots that help it cling to surfaces. The plant can grow up to 10-15 meters in height, but it can be easily trained to grow in a specific direction. The Creeping Fig produces a small, unimpressive fruit that is not edible.
Care Guide
The Creeping Fig is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: The Creeping Fig prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate short periods of drought. Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The Creeping Fig prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.- Sunlight: The Creeping Fig prefers bright, indirect light. It can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The Creeping Fig is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Creeping Fig is generally a pest-free plant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap. The plant can also be affected by leaf spot, which is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. This disease can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The Creeping Fig is native to East Asia and is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It can be found growing on walls, trellises, and fences, as well as in gardens, parks, and indoor spaces. The plant prefers warm, humid conditions and can tolerate a range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Creeping Fig a fast-growing plant?
A: Yes, the Creeping Fig is a fast-growing plant that can quickly cover walls and other surfaces.
Q: Can the Creeping Fig be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Creeping Fig can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect light and adequate humidity.
Q: Is the Creeping Fig poisonous to pets?
A: Yes, the Creeping Fig is toxic to pets if ingested. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
Q: How often should I prune my Creeping Fig?
A: You should prune your Creeping Fig regularly to control its growth and prevent it from becoming too invasive. Prune the plant in the spring or fall, and remove any dead or damaged stems and leaves.
Related Plants
– Ficus benjamina- Ficus elastica- Ficus lyrata- Ficus microcarpa- Ficus pumila
References
– “Ficus pumila.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b634- “Creeping Fig.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/MG/MG30700.pdf- “Ficus Pertusa.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/ficus-pumila-care-overview-1902776