Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-5 cm of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain away completely to prevent root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Ficus rubiginosa prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes being waterlogged.
Also known as Illawarra Fig · Larger Small-Leaf Fig · Little Leaf Fig
Port Jackson Fig (Ficus rubiginosa) is an iconic Australian native fig tree, known for its smooth, grey bark and small, edible figs. It's a popular ornamental and shade t
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Prefers bright light but can tolerate some shade. Avoid direct scorching sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-5 cm of soil feels dry. Allow excess water to drain away completely to prevent root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Ficus rubiginosa prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes being waterlogged.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to encourage bushier growth. Best done in spring before the main growth spurt. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Wear gloves as the sap can be irritating.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long with at least two nodes. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in moist potting mix.
Maintain warmth and humidity for best results.
Repot young plants annually or every two years in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 3-4 years. Choose a pot one size larger with good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Avoid disturbing the roots too much.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Port Jackson Fig (Ficus rubiginosa)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Ficus |
| Species | Ficus rubiginosa |
Similar in genus Ficus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data