Also known as Werckle's Rubber Tree · West Indian Laurel Fig
Ficus americana, the Jamaican Cherry Fig, is a large, spreading fig tree native to the Americas, known for its fig-like syconia and spreading canopy, offering shade.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Can tolerate some direct sun if acclimated.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed 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 | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow excess water to drain away completely. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Aim for consistently moist, but not soggy, soil.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to encourage fuller growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Light pruning can be done anytime, but heavier pruning is best in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Use clean, sharp tools.
Propagate Ficus americana from stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch cuttings in spring or summer, remove lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Plant in a well-draining potting mix and keep consistently moist and warm. Roots usually form within 4-6 weeks.
Repot your Ficus americana every 2-3 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repotting is best done in spring.
Water thoroughly after repotting to help settle the soil.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Jamaican Cherry Fig (Ficus americana)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Ficus |
| Species | Ficus americana |
Similar in genus Ficus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
