Moraceae
Ficus ingens
Red-leaved Fig
Canopy/Emergment Tree
70 small available right now.
About
This robust fig tree is notable for its broad, leathery leaves that often display a reddish hue when new, maturing to a glossy green. As a keystone species, it produces abundant fruits that are a vital food source for a wide array of birds and other wildlife.
Where it works in Kilifi
Thriving in full sun and well-drained soils, this magnificent tree is ideal as a large specimen or shade tree in spacious gardens. Allowing ample room for its extensive root system and canopy, it significantly enhances local biodiversity, making it suitable for wildlife-focused landscapes and restoration projects.
Growing notes
It exhibits a moderate to fast growth rate and, once established, is remarkably drought-tolerant, requiring minimal supplementary watering. Prosperous in warm coastal conditions, care should be taken with its placement due to its potentially extensive root system.
Sources
Drafted from: Gemini 2.5 Flash. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.