The Ficus Lutea tree is one of the strangest and most interesting figs that you will ever come across. This unusual fig is found in a few isolated areas of South Africa, where it grows as a large shrub or small tree. Although not well known, the Ficus Lutea is an interesting plant that deserves more attention. In this article, we will provide general information about the Ficus Lutea, including botanical references, range, habitat, cultivation details, edible uses, and more!
Plant Specifics
Origins: Ficus Lutea is native to the tropical regions of Africa, Asia and Australasia. It is a member of the Moraceae (mulberry) family which includes such delights as the breadfruit, figs and mulberries.
Botanical References: The most recent classification of the genus Ficus places this species in section Malvanthera. It was formerly placed in its own separate genus Urostigma.
Range: Ficus Lutea is found throughout tropical Africa, Asia and Australasia.
Habitat: This species typically inhabits lowland rainforest, gallery forest and riverine forest. It can also be found in secondary growth forests and disturbed habitats.
Height: The Ficus Lutea can reach a height of 65-100 ft.
Width: The trunk of the Ficus Lutea can grow to a width of 18-36 in.
Leaves: The leaves of the Ficus Lutea are simple, alternate and spirally arranged. They are variable in shape but are typically oval to oblong with a pointed tip. The leaves are glossy green with a pale midrib. The margins of the leaves are entire or slightly wavy.
Flowers: The flowers of the Ficus Lutea are small and borne in clusters on the leaf axils. The flower clusters are enclosed by large, fleshy bracts that resemble figs.
Ficus Lutea Fruit: The fruit of the Ficus Lutea is a small, fleshy drupe that is yellow to orange in color when ripe.
Ficus Lutea Care at Home
Ficus Lutea can be easily cultivated at home with the appropriate tools and care. The following tips will help you take proper care of your Ficus Lutea:
- Provide proper lighting for your plant. Ficus Lutea requires bright, indirect sunlight in order to thrive. If you cannot provide this type of lighting, consider using grow lights.
- Water your plant regularly, but do not overwater. Allow the soil to dry out in between watering sessions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be deadly for your plant.
- Fertilize your plant every few months during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. This will help ensure that your plant gets the nutrients it needs to grow.
- Prune your plant as needed to shape it and encourage new growth.
Diseases and Pests
Ficus Lutea is generally a very hardy plant and does not suffer from many diseases or pests. However, like all plants, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or to mealybugs if underwater. It is also important to keep an eye out for spider mites, which can infest the plant and cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. If you suspect your plant has any of these problems, please see our care guide for more information on how to treat them.
