Ficus longifolia
Long-leaf Fig
Description
Source: leafsnapFicus longifolia, commonly known as the Alii fig or Banana-leaf fig, is an evergreen tree species in the Moraceae family. Native to Southeast Asia and Australia, this plant has gained popularity worldwide as an ornamental due to its attractive foliage and ease of care. The Alii fig can reach heights of 10-15 meters and spread out 5-10 meters. Its long, narrow leaves are a glossy green with prominent veins, closely resembling banana leaves, which is why it is commonly called the Banana-leaf fig. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. It requires well-draining soil that should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Regular fertilization during the growing season is beneficial for optimal growth. Beyond its ornamental appeal, Ficus longifolia possesses medicinal properties, containing compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Overall, Ficus longifolia is an excellent choice for those seeking an easy-to-care-for indoor or outdoor tree with beautiful foliage that adds a tropical touch to any setting.
Care Guide
💧 Water Every 7 days
☀️ Light Partial sun
Ficus longifolia occurs naturally in habitats like forest understories and rocky areas, where it grows in natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, illustrating its versatile and hardy nature.
🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C
Ficus longifolia is fairly adaptable to heat, able to endure higher temperatures and larger temperature swings. In hot weather, attention should be paid to watering and providing adequate shade to avoid sunburn. Conversely, its tolerance for cold is fairly poor. While it can cope with some chill, excessively low temperatures may cause frost damage.
💨 Humidity high (>60%)
This plant needs special care because it loves high humidity levels of 60-80% or more. The best way to achieve this is by placing a humidifier near the plant. Daily misting is also essential! Make sure the room has good ventilation.
🪴 Soil 6-8
🌱 Fertilizer
Timing is critical when fertilizing Ficus longifolia. Begin in early spring and apply monthly until early summer. Fertilizer encourages attractive blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth phases.
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Ficus
- Family
- Moraceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-12
- Mature Height
- 3.05 m to 7.92 m
- Mature Spread
- 2.13 m to 3.05 m
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green, Forest Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Bloom Time
- All year round
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- All year round
- Native Area
- Brazil