Ficus

Description

The genus Ficus includes hundreds of varieties, some very different from one another in the shape and size of their leaves. Ficus benjamina has oval leaves, which may also be variegated, and flexible, slender branches with an elegant habit. Ficus elastica, also known as the rubber tree, is a plant that can be planted outdoors in mild climates. It has large, oval, leathery leaves with a prominent midrib, and straight stems which, if they are pinched out, produce side shoots and lose their stiff appearance. Ficus lyrata (or F. pandurata) is a plant of upright habit, with fairly large oval leaves with wavy margins and raised veins. Ficus pumila (also called F. repens or F. scadens) is a very graceful climber, with very small but dense foliage, able to cover walls and trellises perfectly. Like the other species it has green or white-green leaves. Ficus pumila prefers a high degree of humidity and a shady spot.

Cultivation

In general, Ficus plants prefer a very bright position and rooms where the temperature never drops below 10°. A universal potting soil enriched with peat and manure is suitable, always kept loosened at the surface. Ficus plants like to have their roots confined in small pots: a pot 14 cm in diameter is sufficient for a specimen one metre tall. Frequent repotting is neither necessary nor welcome. Watering must be abundant in summer and limited in the resting season. Both water stagnating in the saucer and air that is too dry can cause the leaves to drop. It is important to spray the leaves regularly and keep them clean. In summer all Ficus plants benefit greatly from being taken outdoors under a tree, or at least in half-shade, sheltered from the wind. The plants should be brought back indoors when the night temperature falls below 16°. Sharp changes in temperature cause massive leaf drop. This unpleasant phenomenon also occurs when the plants have been exposed to draughts. Sheltered positions, therefore, both indoors and outdoors. Fertilising should be done throughout the year every two or three weeks. Since Ficus plants are subject to attack by pests, in particular scale insects, it is advisable to check the branches and leaves often. To get rid of scale insects the foliage can be washed thoroughly and carefully (under the shower indoors, or with a garden hose outdoors) while removing the pests by hand at the same time, or an anti-scale product can be used.

Propagation

All varieties are reproduced through layering, during the months of June and July.