Moraceae

Ficus lingua

box-leaved fig

Canopy/Emergment Tree

Common species

Size

Quantity

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About

This evergreen fig can grow as a shrub, a climbing plant, or a tree up to 30 metres tall, often beginning life as an epiphyte before developing aerial roots that can embrace and outcompete host trees. It features glossy, tongue-shaped or oblanceolate leaves and produces small, globose figs in its leaf axils. Native to tropical Africa, it thrives in humid forests, coastal bushland, and coral outcrops.

Where it works in Kilifi

Suitable for Kilifi-coast gardens, thriving in coastal bushland and coral outcrop conditions. Plant in full sun to bright light as a magnificent shade or specimen tree, allowing ample space for its mature canopy. It is also valuable for ecological restoration projects.

Growing notes

This species is a slow to moderate grower. It requires moderate watering, with the top 2 inches of soil drying out between waterings, but is sensitive to overwatering. Avoid placing in low light or drafty areas to prevent leaf drop once established.

Sources

Researched with web grounding from: gabriellaplants.com, theferns.info, lafolieverte.com, jstor.org, provenwinners.com, kartuz.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.