RED LEAVED FIG

(Ficus ingens)

A tree of red leaved fig

Family: Moraceae

Common names: Rooiblaarvy, mohlatsa,  motlhatsa, tshikululu, umthombe,

                             Umgonswane.
 

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Red leaved fig is possibly a native of  South Africa.   However, it grows allover the African continent upto Ethiopia. 

            This tree grows in various habitats but usually outside forest and prefers rocky outcrops and cliff faces.  The roots spread across rock faces and penetrate almost imperceptible cracks, sometimes splitting the rock.

            It is a quite showy tree in early spring because of its red coppery leaves.

Description

Red leaved fig is an evergreen tree with a briefly deciduous period. It grows up to 10 m, occasionally higher, with a rounded or spreading crown and with a spread of up to 30 m wide. All the parts have milky latex when broken. The bark is grey, smooth and becomes cracked in older specimens.

The heart-shaped or lanceolate, dull green leaves are hairless and leathery, with conspicuous yellow veins running parallel from the midrib and loping along the margin with three distinct veins at the base, up to 165 mm long and 85 mm wide. New leaves are coppery or reddish.

Stalked fruit or small figs are borne in pairs or singly in the leaf axil or on bare stems below the leaves. Figs are white at first, becoming pink, red or purple when mature and are soft and fleshy. Fruits are found on the tree usually throughout the year but peaking in summer.

Utilization:

The fruit are edible but not as palatable as common fig (Ficus carica).

Cultivation:

Red leaved fig plants can be produced from seed, cuttings or truncheons.  This fruit is able to tolerate moderate frosts, particularly when it is protected during the winter months for the first few years. .

Red leaved fig plant has an aggressive root system and should therefore not be planted near buildings, swimming pools, drainage or sewerage systems. It is popular as a container plant and as a bonsai. Because it is such a lovely shade tree and is fast growing, it is suitable for large rock gardens.

INPUT FROM

Marie Jordan
National Herbarium, Pretoria

South Africa