How to identify Roxburgh fig (Ficus auriculata)

How to identify Roxburgh fig (Ficus auriculata)

Roxburgh fig, also known as Imperial tree

Roxburgh fig is a robust plant that matures into either a large shrub or a small tree, with its height and width potentially reaching up to 25 feet (7.6 meters). Its most distinctive feature is the extraordinary size of its ova-shaped leaves, which can grow as large as 15 inches (38 centimeters) in diameter. The foliage initially emerges in a vivid coppery-red hue before transitioning to a lighter green as it matures. Notably, roxburgh fig bears large, rounded figs, about 3 inches (7.6 centimeters) wide and 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) tall, that intriguingly develop in groups directly on the trunk and larger branches, a characteristic known as cauliflory. These figs typically persist on the plant for extended periods.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Tree

Leaf Type: Evergreen, Semi-evergreen

Quickly Identify Roxburgh fig

Massive ova-shaped leaves up to 15 inches (38 cm) in diameter.

Fruits develop directly on trunk and branches in cauliflory.

Distinct male and female flowers enclosed within small figs.

Large edible figs measuring 2.4 to 3.1 inches (6 to 8 cm) in diameter.

Leaves are broad, ovate, dark green, glossy, with prominent netted veins.

Detailed Traits of Roxburgh fig

Leaf Features

The leaves of roxburgh fig are large, reaching up to 21 inches (53 cm) wide and 12 inches (30 cm) long. They are broad, ovate to heart-shaped with slightly serrated edges. The upper surface is dark green with a glossy sheen, while the underside is lighter and slightly hairy. The prominent veins create a netted pattern, particularly pronounced on the underside. This robust structure and size make the leaves an identifiable characteristic of roxburgh fig.

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Flower Features

The flowers of roxburgh fig are relatively inconspicuous. They exhibit distinct male and female reproductive structures on the same tree. The female flowers form inside small, green figs that turn reddish upon maturity. Male flowers, nearly hidden within the figs, are less prominent. Generally, they lack significant petal formation and are rather small, about 0.2 inches (0.5 cm) in size. The tree blooms intermittently throughout the year. These features reflect a unique pollination mechanism involving specific wasps.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of roxburgh fig is a large, rounded fig which forms in dense clusters directly on the trunk and main branches. These edible figs, known as drupelets, boast a varied palette ranging from green to red-brown as they mature. Each fruit typically measures about 2.4 to 3.1 inches (6 to 8 cm) in diameter, covered by a skin that is smooth to touch. The flesh inside is succulent and houses numerous tiny seeds. It often takes several years for the fruit to appear, with a usual waiting period ranging from 3 to 5 years post-planting.

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Roxburgh fig and Their Similar Plants

Rubber tree vs. Roxburgh fig: What's The Difference?

Rubber tree (Ficus elastica) is a large tree with wide, oval, glossy leaves. Its milky white latex was used for making rubber before Pará rubber tree came into use, hence the name. Rubber tree is an ornamental species, often grown as a houseplant in cooler climates.

Indian Laurel vs. Roxburgh fig: What's The Difference?

Indian Laurel (Ficus microcarpa) is a fig tree originating in China. The indian Laurel attracts the fig wasp pollinator. In some east Asian cultures, it is believed the indian Laurel is a meeting place for spirits.

Weeping fig vs. Roxburgh fig: What's The Difference?

Weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) is an evergreen tree native to Asia and Australia. It is one of the most popular houseplants in the world, known for its elegant, glossy leaves. However, people with allergies should avoid weeping fig, considering that it is a major source of indoor allergens. All parts of the plant are poisonous except the fruits.

Fiddle-leaf fig vs. Roxburgh fig: What's The Difference?

As its name implies, the fiddle-leaf fig has leaves that are shaped like a violin. Wildly popular as a houseplant, the Ficus lyrata makes an architectural statement with its unique and lush leaves. However, please be aware that this plant is finicky and can be hard to keep alive.

Common fig vs. Roxburgh fig: What's The Difference?

Ficus carica, colloquially known as the common fig, is a deciduous small tree or shrub widely known for its sweet, chewy fruits. This shrubby plant has a very, very long cultivation history. The earliest evidence of its cultivation was found in the Jordan Valley and go all the way back to the tenth millennium BC.

Creeping fig vs. Roxburgh fig: What's The Difference?

Creeping fig (Ficus pumila) is a plant species native to China, Japan and Vietnam. Creeping fig has been naturalized in parts of the United States. It can be cultivated as a houseplant. The FDA lists this species in its Database of Poisonous Plants due to the plant's toxic sap, which causes inflammation.

Ficus Ginseng vs. Roxburgh fig: What's The Difference?

Ficus Ginseng is distinct for its thick, bulbous roots, which resemble ginseng roots. It is easy to grow and grows fast, making it a popular plant for bonsai.

Long leaf fig vs. Roxburgh fig: What's The Difference?

Many long leaf fig species have elongated leaves, but this particular species, Ficus maclellandii, is commonly referred to as the long leaf fig. In the horticultural context, the long leaf fig is most present in the form of a cultivar called 'Alii' and can be cultivated as a houseplant.

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Key Facts About Roxburgh fig

Attributes of Roxburgh fig

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

1.8 m to 3 m

Flower Color

Pink

Fruit Color

Brown

Green

Copper

Leaf type

Evergreen, Semi-evergreen

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Scientific Classification of Roxburgh fig

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Family

Mulberry

Genus

Fig trees

Species

Roxburgh fig (Ficus auriculata)

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Distribution Map of Roxburgh fig

Roxburgh fig finds its native habitat in the tropical regions of Southeast Asia and the northern parts of South Asia. It has been introduced and cultivated in various other tropical areas, expanding its presence beyond its original range. The plant thrives in both its natural habitat and new regions as a cultivated species.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the Roxburgh fig

A Comprehensive Guide to Roxburgh fig How to Grow and Care for Roxburgh fig