Easy-to-grow instructions included. 10 seeds per pack.
The giant-leaved fig is a magnificent member of the renowned fig family. Like so many of its close relatives, it offers much of ecological and ornamental value. To behold a mature specimen displaying its full spread and large, sculptured buttress roots is an impressive sight and one not easily forgotten.
Description
Ficus lutea is a large, briefly-deciduous tree, capable of growing to 25 m in height. Its large, spreading crown can span 30 to 45 m in width. This spreading habit coupled with an often short and buttressed trunk can help in revealing the tree's identity from a distance. Under forest conditions, however, it tends towards a taller growth habit with a somewhat narrower spread.
The bark is relatively smooth-textured and dark grey to brown in colour. Branches may be finely hairy when young, becoming smooth with age. The lovely smooth, glossy leaves are very large in size, as the common name would suggest, and are quite distinctive, ranging from 130 to 430 mm in length and up to 200 mm in width.
The syconia ('fruits'), , are crowded towards the ends of the branchlets in the leaf axils or below the leaves. They measure 15 to 30 mm in diameter, are sessile (stalkless) and are densely hairy to smooth.
Distribution and habitat
The giant-leaved fig is a widely distributed species. It occurs naturally in South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe, into tropical and west Africa, as well as in Madagascar, the Comores and Seychelles It is a commonly cultivated species and has become naturalized in areas previously outside its distribution range. The habitats in which it occurs are varied, ranging from coastal and riverine forest to evergreen forest and woodland. The species is seen to occur from sea level to 1 000 m and, in some areas up to 1 800 m above sea level. It tends to thrive in the warm, moist and frost-free areas within its range, and under such conditions can be a very fast grower indeed
Ecology
From an ecological perspective, the giant-leaved fig is both fascinating and remarkable. Fig trees in general have a well-founded reputation for being virtual wildlife magnets and this species proudly upholds this reputation. A wide variety of frugivorous (fruit-eating) birds are attracted by the promise of a good meal in the form of the abundant fleshy figs produced by the tree. Numerous insectivorous bird species join the feast, feeding on the rich insect life that is drawn to the figs. In addition, the figs are relished by a range of mammals that include bats, duikers and Vervet and Samango monkeys, as well as baboons in areas where they coexist with F. lutea. The masses of fallen figs also support much decomposition-related activity.
Uses
The giant-leaved fig is well known for its horticultural value and is cultivated in various regions in Africa. In the wetter, warm eastern parts of South Africa, it is a popular street tree and is a common feature in parks and other urban open spaces. Its use in horticulture has attached to it some economic value also, as is evident in the nursery trade. The bark has been used traditionally in the production of twine and the plant sap (latex) is used for bird lime. The use of the bark in the production of bark cloth has been recorded in Mozambique, this cloth being a commodity. In West Africa the fruits are known to be consumed by people, and in Angola the wood of the tree is used for the making of bowls
Growing Ficus lutea
This species can be grown successfully from both seed and truncheons. Ripe figs should be opened and allowed to dry for a day or so. Alternatively, they can be stored for a few months in a cool, dry and dark spot and sown when conditions are favourable, the recommended time being spring. We recommend a growing medium consisting of equal parts washed river sand and vermiculite. Spread the seeds over the growing medium in seed trays and cover lightly with this same medium. Place the trays in a warm, well-aired and brightly-lit spot, ensuring the medium is kept moist. Germination times may vary from 10 days to one month and after around one week of growth the seedlings are best moved into a sunny position. Once the young plants have gained some strength and composure, transplant into bags in a rich, well-drained soil mix.
The use of truncheons is popular too and, being a vegetative (asexual) method of propagation, yields clones of the mother plant. Truncheons, with a diameter of 70-80 mm, can be inserted by a third of their length into a sand and compost mix, good drainage being a key factor.
The ability of this generally fast-growing species to withstand winds and salt spray make it well suited to the warm, subtropical coastal region. It is also suited for use as an indoor plant. In the garden situation it makes a fine spreading shade tree and helps greatly in supporting wildlife in the urban setting. Plant in a large hole, add a generous amount of compost and water regularly until well established. Whether planted for its wonderful aesthetic, functional or ecological value, this beautiful and majestic fig is sure to add a special kind of magic.
