Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii

Common Names

Natal Fig

Summary

Native to Africa from Senegal to the D.R. Congo and northern Angola, this tree or shrub (sometimes lianescent) features glabrous, thin-leathery leaves that are often subopposite and obovate to narrowly obtriangular, with an obtuse to truncate or emarginate apex and entire margins; small yellow figs about 5–10 mm in diameter occur and are eaten by birds. Common names include Kacere, Kanyanguni, and Mutaba, and it inhabits gallery forests in areas of high rainfall.

Its cultivation requires USDA Zone 10–11, full sun to partial shade, and well-draining fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0; keep consistently moist, plant in spring or early summer, and space for mature size. It adapts to container culture and can be trained as a small tree or hedge; offers air purification and ornamental value, with propagation by seeds or cuttings (seeds soak 24 hours to 1/4 inch depth; cuttings 4–6 inches with rooting hormone), maturing at 10–30 ft tall and 10–20 ft wide, growing 12–24 inches per year, with a 3–5 year time to maturity, a 10–20 year lifespan, and edible young leaves and fruits, though sap may irritate skin requiring gloves.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

10-30 ft

Spread

10-20 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 10-11

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun to partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-draining, fertile soil, pH 6.0–7.0

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil to avoid waterlogging.

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Bloom Time

Late Spring to Early Summer

Foliage Color

Bright green

Fall Foliage Color

Bright green

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

12–24 inches per year

Seasons of Interest

All year

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings

Attracts Wildlife

Birds: Yes, Other pollinators: fig-wasps