Moraceae
Ficus recurvata
T
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Ficus recurvata is a fig tree native to West and Central Tropical Africa, growing up to 35 metres tall with a dense, spreading crown and buttressed bole in mature specimens. It typically begins life as a hemi-epiphyte, sending down aerial roots that can eventually strangle a host tree. Its spirally arranged leaves are elliptic to obovate, measuring 10–44 cm long and 7–22 cm wide, with figs that are ellipsoid to subglobose and 1.5–3 cm in diameter.
Where it works in Kilifi
This large canopy tree thrives in warm, humid coastal conditions, suitable for large-scale landscaping or restoration projects in Kilifi. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained loamy or alluvial soils, common in riverine and coastal forest environments. Due to its strangling habit, ensure ample spacing from other desirable trees or structures.
Growing notes
Ficus recurvata is an evergreen or briefly deciduous tree that benefits from consistent moisture, reflecting its native wet tropical biome habitat, though well-drained soil is essential. A significant caution for cultivation is its hemi-epiphytic nature, where it can develop aerial roots that strangle host trees, so careful site selection is paramount.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: grokipedia.com, wikipedia.org, theferns.info, kew.org, worldagroforestry.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.