Ficus pumila aka Climbingfig

Taxonomy

Ficus pumila, also known as the creeping fig or climbing fig, is a species of flowering plant in the mulberry family. It is native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Vietnam, but has also been naturalized in parts of the southeastern and south-central United States. This popular houseplant is a herbaceous, creeping, and ground-dwelling long-lived plant that can reach up to 15 feet in length and 6 feet in width. The Latin specific epithet pumila means "dwarf", which refers to the very small leaves of the plant. It is interesting to note that all plants in the Ficus genus produce figs, hence the name Ficus, which quite literally means figs! These figs are pollinated by tiny wasps that use the fruits as a safe place to raise their young. However, Ficus plants also contain latex, which emerges as a milky sap when twigs are broken, making them toxic. Therefore, it is important to keep a close eye out if you have children or pets around. Despite this, the Creeping fig can become either your first house plant or a special addition to your already existing collection. With its unique ability to have large adult branches and barren branches with leaves of tiny size at the same time, it is a peculiar but fascinating plant.

Common names

Climbingfig, Creeping Fig, Creeping Rubberplant

How to care for Climbingfig

Difficulty

Climbingfig requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Climbingfig should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Climbingfig 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 Climbingfig 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 cold period, it is common for Climbingfig to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Humidity

The Climbingfig does not necessitate supplementary humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their roots, rather than their leaves. Hence, the most effective way to supply humidity to your plants is by watering the soil.

Fertilizer

The Climbingfig should be transferred to a new pot once it has increased in size two-fold, or on an annual basis, whichever occurs earlier. Replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the necessary nutrients, is sufficient enough to support the growth of the plant, thus avoiding the need to use fertilizer. It's important to note that plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Climbingfig’s native range is worldwide Tropics.


More info:
Wikipedia