Ficus microcarpa

Common Names

Chinese Banyan, Malayan Banyan, Indian Laurel, Curtain Fig, Ficus Ginseng

Summary

Sources describe Ficus microcarpa as a tropical evergreen fig native to Asia and Australia, used widely as an ornamental tree in gardens, landscapes, containers, and as indoor bonsai. It features glossy dark-green leaves, prominent aerial roots, and a thick trunk; small green to reddish fruits occur but are not edible for humans. The plant is valued for its hardiness, adaptability to indoor and outdoor conditions, and its popularity in bonsai and design contexts.

Care involves bright, indirect light (some direct sun tolerated), warm temperatures around 60–75°F (16–24°C), and humidity; keep soil evenly moist but well-drained and avoid waterlogging. Repot every 2–3 years into a slightly larger container with a well-draining mix; propagate by stem cuttings or air layering; prune to shape and encourage branching. Watch for pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale, and for root rot from overwatering; plant sap is toxic if ingested and may irritate skin. Commonly grown indoors as a focal plant or bonsai, with outdoor use in suitable climates.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

5-49 feet

Spread

2-100 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 9-11

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Partial Sun to Partial Shade; outdoors can grow in Full Sun; indoors prefers bright indirect light.

Soil Type

Well-draining, humus-rich soil with abundant organic matter and a pH of 5.5–7.5

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Soil pH

6.0-7.0, slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

Purple

Bloom Time

Year-round

Foliage Color

Green

Fall Foliage Color

No fall foliage color; evergreen with green leaves year-round.

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Fast-growing

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Division, Layering

Attracts Wildlife

Birds: Yes, Pollination: by fig wasp