Ficus umbellata

About umbellata

Ficus umbellata is an evergreen fig in the mulberry family (Moraceae), native to tropical Africa from Senegal east to southwestern Ethiopia and south to Angola. It grows either as a terrestrial tree or as an epiphyte that can strangle its host, and reaches about 10 to 12 m tall. The large, thin leaves are broadly ovate to nearly round, 10 to 26 cm long and 6.5 to 20 cm wide, with a heart-shaped to squared-off base, a short pointed tip and a slightly wavy margin; the lateral veins often fork before reaching the edge. The petiole is 3 to 12.5 cm long. Round figs about 3 cm across are borne in clusters on short spurs just below the leaves and on older, leafless branches, turning yellowish green with paler dots when ripe. It is widely grown as an indoor foliage plant. The white sap released when stems are cut can irritate the skin.

Care Guide

LightPartial Sun

WateringModerate (When Dry)

Temperature10℃〜

HumidityModerate

Difficulty:

Beginner

Care Tips

Grow in a bright, well-ventilated spot; it tolerates some shade, but direct sun through a window can scorch the thin leaves. It is sensitive to overwatering. During the growing season (spring to early autumn), water thoroughly once the surface of the soil has dried, roughly once a week, and empty the saucer. From mid-autumn to early spring, water only every 10 to 14 days, after the surface has dried. Keep it at 10°C or above in winter and avoid sudden temperature changes; leaves may drop in the cold, but new shoots usually appear in spring. It grows fast and can reach the ceiling indoors, so prune in the warm season, ideally in late spring to early summer. Wear gloves when pruning, as the sap can irritate skin. Propagate by cuttings rooted in water or by air layering.