| Etymology | Genus | From the Latin name for the fig (Ficus species) |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Variation, probably referencing the fig colour changes as it ripens | |
| Family | Moraceae | |
| Synonyms | - | |
| Common Names | Common Red Stem Fig | |
| Status | Native: Common | |
| Form | Tree | |
| Native Distribution | India, South China, Indochina, Malesia, Australia and Solomon Islands | |
Diagnostics:
Ficus variegata is a common deciduous tree growing up to 30m. It can be immediately recognised when it figs, covering much of its trunk and branches. The trunk's colour is pale reddish, giving its common name. Mature individuals have impressive buttress roots. The leaves have long petioles and are heart-shaped.
Interesting Facts:
The Common Red Stem Fig is pollinated by the fig wasp of the genus Ceratosolen (Jeevanandam, 2013).
Tree along Old Upper Thomson Road, 2025.
Large buttress roots.
Branches.
Leaf.
Figging branches.
Young figs.
Ripening figs.
References
Jeevanandam N. (2013) Fig wasps dispersal in urban Singapore. The Raffles Bulletin of Zoology, 61(1): 313-347. PDF.Author: Siyang
Posted: 2025-08-10
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