Ficus erecta aka Erect Fig
Taxonomy
Ficus erecta, also known as the Japanese fig or Ficus beecheyana, is a deciduous or semideciduous shrub or tree that can grow from 2 to 7 meters tall. It is found in various regions including the eastern Himalayas, Assam, Bangladesh, Vietnam, southern China, Taiwan, Jeju Island of South Korea, the Ryukyu Islands, and Japan. This plant is often found alongside streams and has small, sweet fruit that are 1.0 to 2.5 cm in diameter. All plants in the Ficus genus produce figs and are characterized by their unique inflorescence and pollination system involving tiny, highly specific wasps known as fig wasps. The fig fruit is an enclosed inflorescence, referred to as a syconium, and is lined with the fig's tiny flowers. Additionally, Ficus plants contain latex, making them toxic, so care must be taken around children and pets. Some species are harvested from the wild for local use as a food and source of fiber, while others are grown as ornamentals. Overall, Ficus plants are unique and fascinating members of the plant kingdom.
Common names
Erect FigHow to care for Erect Fig
Difficulty
Erect Fig presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
Water
Erect Fig should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Erect Fig loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Erect Fig prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it's common for Erect Fig to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Humidity
The Erect Fig does not demand additional humidity levels. Water is mostly absorbed by the roots of plants, rather than their leaves, and the best way to provide humidity to your plants is through watering the soil.
Fertilizer
Once the Erect Fig has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Region of origin
Erect Fig’s native range is worldwide Tropics.
More info:
Wikipedia
