Other Names:  Sand Fig, Cedar Fig, Strangler Fig

Description:

A small to medium sized tree with long, slender, spreading or weeping branches; goes through a short deciduous period; great for large garden landscapes; abundant edible fruit turns purple when ripe and attracts birds

Ornamental Features

Deciduous Fig has attractive dark green deciduous foliage on a tree with an upright spreading habit of growth. The large glossy oval leaves are highly ornamental but do not develop any appreciable fall color. The fruits are showy plum purple pomes displayed in mid fall. The fruit can be messy if allowed to drop on the lawn or walkways, and may require occasional clean-up.

Landscape Attributes

Deciduous Fig is a multi-stemmed deciduous 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 is a good choice for attracting birds to your yard. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Messy

Deciduous Fig is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• Shade
• Hedges/Screening

Planting & Growing

Deciduous Fig will grow to be about 40 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 30 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 does best in average to evenly moist conditions, but will not tolerate standing water. It may require supplemental watering during periods of drought or extended heat. It is not particular as to soil pH, but grows best in sandy soils. 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 species is not originally from North America.