Ficus altissima, commonly known as the Council Tree or the Council Fig, is a stunning evergreen tree belonging to the Moraceae family. Native to Southeast Asia, particularly India, Myanmar, and Malaysia, it has become a popular ornamental tree in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Ficus altissima is valued for its striking appearance, large and attractive leaves, and its ability to thrive in various environmental conditions.
Landscape Use:
Ficus altissima is commonly used as a shade tree in parks, gardens, and outdoor recreational areas, thanks to its broad and dense canopy.
Its large and attractive leaves make it a visually striking addition to landscape designs, where it can serve as a focal point or a statement tree.
The spreading growth habit of Ficus altissima makes it an excellent choice for providing shade over patios, courtyards, and seating areas.
Overall, Ficus altissima is an impressive and versatile tree, with its large, glossy leaves and spreading growth habit. Its adaptability to various environmental conditions and its aesthetic appeal make it a prized choice for landscape designers and nature enthusiasts seeking to create a lush and inviting outdoor environment.
Here’s a detailed description of Ficus altissima:
Plant Characteristics:
Size: Ficus altissima is a large-sized tree that can grow up to 60 to 100 feet (18 to 30 meters) in height in its natural habitat. In cultivation, it may reach heights of 30 to 60 feet (9 to 18 meters) under ideal conditions.
Leaves: The leaves of Ficus altissima are the standout feature of the tree. They are large, leathery, and shiny, with a broad oval or elliptical shape. The foliage is typically a vibrant shade of green with prominent veins running across the surface. The leaves can grow to be quite large, measuring up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length.
Growth Habit: Ficus altissima has a dense and spreading growth habit, with a rounded canopy that provides ample shade. The branches tend to grow horizontally and may develop aerial roots under suitable conditions.
Roots: Like other Ficus species, Ficus altissima can produce aerial roots that add to the tree’s overall aesthetic appeal and help with stability.
Flowers and Fruits: Ficus altissima produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are typically hidden within the leaf axils. The flowers are not a prominent feature of the tree. The fruit is a small, round fig-like structure that contains numerous tiny seeds. While technically edible, the fruits are not commonly consumed by humans.
Cultural Requirements:
Sunlight: Ficus altissima thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. It prefers a location with filtered sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature: This tree is well-suited to warm and tropical climates, where temperatures remain above 50°F (10°C). It is not frost-tolerant and may suffer damage or die back in freezing temperatures.
Soil: Ficus altissima prefers well-draining soil but can adapt to a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
Watering: The tree prefers regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season. However, it can tolerate brief periods of drought once established.
Pruning: Pruning may be necessary to control the size and shape of Ficus altissima, particularly in urban settings or smaller gardens.
