Other Names:  Moreton Bay Fig, Strangler Fig

Description:

This variety has an interesting growth habit, sending out aerial roots like columns from the branches that eventually root into new trunks; rich green oval leaves are glossy; has a highly aggressive root system, give lots of space in warm climates

Ornamental Features

Lord Howe Island Banyan has attractive dark green evergreen foliage on a tree with an upright spreading habit of growth. The glossy oval leaves are highly ornamental and remain dark green throughout the winter.

Landscape Attributes

Lord Howe Island Banyan is a multi-stemmed evergreen tree with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.

This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Lord Howe Island Banyan is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• Shade
• Hedges/Screening

Planting & Growing

Lord Howe Island Banyan will grow to be about 60 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 50 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 3 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live to a ripe old age of 100 years or more; think of this as a heritage tree for future generations!

This tree does best in full sun to partial shade. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist growing conditions, but will not tolerate any standing water. It is considered to be drought-tolerant, and thus makes an ideal choice for xeriscaping or the moisture-conserving landscape. It is not particular as to soil type or pH, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America. It can be propagated by cuttings; however, as a cultivated variety, be aware that it may be subject to certain restrictions or prohibitions on propagation.