| Etymology | Genus | From the Latin name for the fig (Ficus species) |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Small or dwarf, probably referring to the leaves | |
| Family | Moraceae | |
| Synonyms | Ficus hanceana Maxim., Ficus longipedicellata H.Perrier, Ficus scandens Lam. | |
| Common Names | Creeping Fig | |
| Status | Exotic: Casual | |
| Form | Climber | |
| Native Distribution | China, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam | |
Diagnostics:
Ficus pumila has two different types sizes of ovate leaves (with cordate bases). The smaller ones is only about 2-3cm long and creeps along the structures it is cultivated on. If left unpruned, the plant extend its branches where larger leaves of about 8cm grows. It is only here where it figs. The bell-shaped fig is probably one of the largest Ficus species here, about the same length of the large leaves.
Interesting Facts:
The Creeping Fig is a very common cultivated fig grown over the surfaces of overhead bridges and walls to "soften" the urban landscape.
The creeping fig is commonly planted over the surfaces of overhead bridges.
Larger leaves hangs freely.
Small creeping leaves.
Underside of the larger leaf.
The large bell-shaped fig.
Sliced cross section of fig showing the flowers.
References
-Author: Jake
Posted: 2013-10-27 / Modified: 2017-12-25