Fig from the mountains of New Guinea with enormous ribbed leaves and the world's largest figs

Ficus dammaropsis is a very rare fig species endemic to the mountains of New Guinea, where it occurs at altitudes of up to 2,300 meters. It grows as a sparsely branched shrub or tree, often with a somewhat straggly habit, and can reach 9 to 13 meters in height in the wild.

The leaves are large and pleated, up to 60 centimeters wide and 90 centimeters long. The figs have been measured at 22 x 18 centimeters, making this species the bearer of the world's largest figs.

Both fruit and leaves are edible. In New Guinea, the young leaves are eaten cooked, and the plant is harvested from the wild but also occasionally cultivated. The young fruits are boiled and eaten as a vegetable, while the ripe fruits are mostly eaten in times of need.

Like all fig species, it is dependent on its own specialized fig wasp for pollination. The flowers are hidden inside the fig itself, and the female wasp crawls inside, lays its eggs, and pollinates the flowers at the same time. The new female wasps then fly on to other trees with pollen. Without this specific wasp, the tree does not set seed, which means that in cultivation here, it does not produce fertile fruits.

Care

Thrives in a bright location, preferably with some direct sun, but protect the large leaves from strong midday sun. As a mountain species, it appreciates cooler nights and does not perform as well in persistent heat.

Keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season and let it dry slightly on the surface between waterings. Use nutrient-rich, well-draining soil and fertilize regularly from spring to autumn. Preferably place it in a larger pot so that it has space to develop its leaves.

Does not tolerate frost. Ideal temperature 15–26 degrees Celsius, with a somewhat cooler winter and reduced watering.