Ficus Microcarpa (small single plant)

Description

In India, we can sell this Ficus Microcarpa (small single plant) via online delivery systems to any states including Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha (Orissa), Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal

Ficus microcarpa is a fast-growing, evergreen tree or shrub commonly used for bonsai, hedging, and landscaping. It is known for its dense foliage, aerial roots, and adaptability to different environments. Sometimes confused with Ficus retusa, this species is a versatile plant that thrives in both indoor and outdoor settings.

Basic Information:

• Scientific Name: Ficus microcarpa
• Common Names: Chinese Banyan, Indian Laurel Fig, Curtain Fig, Malayan Banyan, Ginseng Ficus (for bonsai forms)
• Family: Moraceae
• Origin: Native to tropical and subtropical Asia and Australia
• Growth Habit: Evergreen tree or shrub
• Size:
  • In nature: 20-100 feet (6-30 meters) tall
  • Indoors/Bonsai: Usually 1-5 feet (30-150 cm)

Foliage & Growth Characteristics:

• Leaves: Small, glossy, oval-shaped, dark green leaves, densely packed on branches.
• Roots:
  • Produces aerial roots in humid conditions, which can form unique trunk structures over time.
  • In bonsai, roots may be exposed for a ginseng-like appearance.
• Flowers & Fruits:
  • Small, inconspicuous flowers.
  • Produces tiny green to purple figs (fruits), which attract birds but are not edible for humans.

Care Requirements:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; tolerates some shade but thrives best in full sun.
• Watering: Keep soil slightly moist but not soggy; allow the top inch to dry before watering.
• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity; misting helps prevent leaf drop indoors.
• Temperature: Thrives in warm temperatures (60-85°F / 15-29°C); not frost-tolerant.
• Soil: Well-draining, nutrient-rich loamy or sandy soil.
• Fertilization: Apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
• Pruning: Regular pruning maintains shape and encourages denser growth.

Propagation:

• Cuttings: Easily propagated from stem cuttings in water or soil.
• Air Layering: Encourages faster rooting and a stronger base for bonsai.

Common Issues:

• Leaf Drop: Caused by sudden changes in light, overwatering, or dry air.
• Pests: Can attract scale insects, mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids—wipe leaves and inspect regularly.
• Root Rot: Overwatering or poor drainage may lead to fungal infections.

Best Uses:

• Bonsai Tree: One of the most popular bonsai species due to its aerial roots and adaptability.
• Hedging & Topiary: Often used for shaped hedges and ornamental landscaping.
• Indoor Houseplant: Grows well indoors if given enough light and humidity.
• Urban Landscaping: Commonly planted along streets and in parks for shade.