Ficus religiosa

RHS Plant Profile
sacred fig tree

Other common names

bo, Hindu bo tree, peepul, pipal, pipul, poplar-leaved fig tree, transparent leaves

Houseplants Trees

An evergreen tree to 30m in the tropics, maybe a tenth of this when grown in a container. It has papery, heart-shaped leaves with long, tapering tips; the new growth is flushed bronze. Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment whilst seated beneath a bodhi tree. It makes an interesting and unusual houseplant for a large conservatory or sun room

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam

Max Height

2.5-4 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
2.5-4 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1C

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Moraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Spreading branched
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
N India to SW China

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in full or bright, indirect light. Water moderately during the growing season and apply a high-nitrogen fertiliser monthly; water sparingly in winter. See ornamental fig cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Houseplants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Conservatory and greenhouse

Pruning

No pruning required, but overly long shoots may be shortened in late winter

Pests

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

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus