Creeping fig - Ficus pumila (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Creeping fig

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.

Scientific classification

Species

Creeping fig (Ficus pumila)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Vine

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Spring, Early spring, Late summer, Mid winter, Late winter

Harvest Time

2.5 m to 4 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 1.8 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Purple

Fruit Color

Green

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Creeping fig

Distribution of Creeping fig

Distribution Map

Creeping fig is native to East Asia and has been introduced to parts of Australia and a few African and South American countries. Elsewhere in the world, it is sometimes used as a garden plant but does not grow wild. It is a creeping and vining plant and is therefore usually found in loose forests and near walls and structures it can climb.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Economic Value

Climbing fig can conserve water and soil.

Garden Use

The creeping fig is often used outdoors as a ground cover, on stone walls and outcroppings, and indoors as a houseplant. It is prized for covering fences, walls, and topiary forms and is well suited to pollinator and rain gardens. Companion plants of the creeping fig include the crossvine, passion vines, Indian hawthorn, and crape myrtle.

Symbolism

Young man's goodwill

Interesting Facts

Legend has it that the German hero Arminius suffered from an eye disease on a journey to war. Ares told him that along the road there were small flowers blooming in the morning that could cure his eyes. The next day, Arminius found the flowers and cured his eye disease and returned in triumph.

Name Story

Creeping fig: As the common name, "creeping fig" indicates, the plant has a creeping capability and is often used in gardens and landscapes where it covers the ground and creeps up trees and walls.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Creeping fig, including the following common varieties :

Creeping fig

Toxicity

Creeping fig poses a mild toxicity risk to cats and dogs if consumed in large quantities. The primary issue is the plant's sap, which contains toxic elements. Symptoms include gastrointestinal upset, gastro problems, and physical discomfort. Immediate veterinary care is crucial to ensure proper treatment and management if significant amounts are ingested. Pet owners must be vigilant to prevent exposure.

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Quickly Identify Creeping fig

Heart-shaped juvenile leaves grow into large, leathery adult leaves (2 to 4 inches / 5 to 10 cm).

Stems produce milky sap, cling using roots in youth, then grow horizontally with woody texture.

Fruit shifts from green to purple, covered in dense hairs, unpalatable despite attractive appearance.

Minute inconspicuous flowers enclosed in fig receptacles, facilitating pollination by fig wasps.

Vine aggressively climbs, reaching heights of 8 to 15 feet (2.4 to 4.5 meters) and spreading 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters).

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Care Guide for Creeping fig

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Creeping fig thrives in high humidity and consistent moisture, reflecting its East Asian tropical origins. It requires weekly watering to sustain lush foliage and is ideal for indoor cultivation, as it maintains hydration year-round due to its evergreen nature.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, creeping fig requires balanced nutrition fertilizers or high-nitrogen options monthly from spring to fall, and every 6-8 weeks in winter. Always water soil before application to prevent root damage, adjusting fertilizer type and frequency seasonally to enhance vigor and longevity.

Pruning: Regular pruning of creeping fig in early spring promotes dense growth, manages size, and improves appearance. Remove damaged stems and overcrowded areas to stimulate new growth. Use clean tools to prevent disease, ensuring the plant remains attractive and contained while avoiding structural damage.

Propagation: Creeping fig can be propagated via softwood cuttings and layering, with spring or summer being the ideal seasons. Key indicators of success are new growth and root formation. Maintain moist soil and ensure sufficient sunlight for optimal propagation results.

Repotting: Repot creeping fig every 2-3 years in spring using a slightly larger pot to promote growth. After repotting, maintain high humidity and provide indirect light. Regular trimming is essential for shaping and preventing overgrowth.

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Images of Creeping fig

Distribution of Creeping fig

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Creeping fig

Care Guide for Creeping fig

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