PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates bright indirect light for indoor young plants
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5–7 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Thrives in 20–30°C; tolerates brief dips to 10°C but is sensitive to frost
Characteristics
- Leaf: Heart-shaped, glossy green, 10–17 cm long; long petioles cause leaves to flutter in light wind
- Flower: Inconspicuous axillary syconia (figs), greenish-yellow when mature
- Stem/Bark: Smooth, light gray bark; aerial roots may develop into secondary trunks over time
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Fertilization
Diluted balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks. Cease fertilization in winter when growth slows
Banana peel compost tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute 1:20 for root drench to avoid nutrient burnPruning
- Remove dead or diseased branches in late winter to maintain canopy shape
- Trim overgrown aerial roots to control spread; avoid cutting the main trunk
- Thin dense foliage to improve air circulation and light penetration
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; sap contains ficin which causes oral irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea
Humans: Mild skin irritation from sap contact; ingestion may cause stomach upset
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Sacred in Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism; site of Buddha's enlightenment
Usage: Ornamental shade tree; traditional medicinal uses for skin and digestive issues
