Rock Fig (Ficus petiolaris)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates intense desert sunlight but benefits from afternoon shade in extreme heat to prevent leaf scorch

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Watering Water deeply only when the top 10–15 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid standing water to prevent root rot

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Temperature Hardy to 5°C; thrives in warm, arid conditions; protect from frost and prolonged temperatures below 10°C

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Leaf: Round to ovate, papery texture, pale green with silvery undersides; long, slender petioles
Stem: Thick, fleshy succulent stems adapted to store water for arid conditions
Fruit: Small, greenish-yellow figs (edible when fully ripe, rarely produced indoors)

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Watering

Water deeply when soil is fully dry to support active growth

Fertilization

Diluted cactus fertilizer once monthly. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter to allow dormancy

Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve soil drainage

Pruning

Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain airflow and reduce pest risk
Trim overgrown stems in early spring to shape the shrub and encourage compact growth
Prune suckers to control spread and direct energy to main stems

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains ficin, causing drooling, vomiting, and oral pain if ingested

Humans: Contains ficin enzyme; ingestion causes oral irritation and mild stomach upset; sap may irritate skin

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Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for arid gardens; ripe figs are edible but rarely produced in cultivation