Ficus microcarpa
aka
Chinese Banyan
Taxonomy
Ficus microcarpa, also known as Chinese banyan, Malayan banyan, Indian laurel, curtain fig, or gajumaru, is a tree in the fig family Moraceae. It is native in a range from China through tropical Asia and the Caroline Islands to Australia, and is widely planted as a shade tree. All plants in this genus produce edible figs, and although they are relatively safe to consume, they emit a milky sap when twigs are broken, making them toxic and not suitable for young children or pets. They are evergreen trees, small shrubs or even climbing plants, and are popular for bonsai use. The Ficus Ginseng is particularly known for its thick and pot-bellied trunk. This species is often misidentified as F. retusa or F. nitida (syn. F. benjamina).
Common names
Chinese Banyan, Ficus Ginseng, Indian Laurel
How to care for Chinese Banyan
Chinese Banyan requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.
Chinese Banyan should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Chinese Banyan 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.
To ensure optimal growth, the Chinese Banyan 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.
During the cold period, it is common for Chinese Banyan to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.
The Chinese Banyan is not in need of supplementary humidity. Most water is taken in by plants through their roots, thus soil watering is the most efficient way to provide humidity to your plants.
The Chinese Banyan should be repotted either when it doubles in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing new potting soil with all the vital nutrients annually is enough to support the growth of the plant, and thus, there is no need for fertilizer. Remember that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Chinese Banyan’s native range is worldwide Tropics.
More info:
Wikipedia
