Ficus cyathistipula

RHS Plant Profile
African fig tree
Houseplants Conservatory Greenhouse

A tropical evergreen tree or shrub, often grown as a houseplant, with large, broadly oval-shaped, glossy green leaves with pointed tips. Leaves are arranged in spirals and can reach up to 20cm long

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1A

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Moraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Genus
Ficus can be evergreen or deciduous trees, shrubs or climbers, with often leathery, simple, entire or lobed leaves and tiny flowers borne within a hollow receptacle which enlarges to form the fruit
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Africa

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in houseplant compost in full or bright filtered light. During growth water moderately and apply a high nitrogen fertiliser every month; water sparingly in winter. Topdress annually and repot every 2-3 years. See houseplant cultivation for further information

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings with bottom heat in spring or summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Houseplants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Sub-tropical

Pruning

See pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite, thrips, mealybugs and scale insects under glass

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus