Pink variegated creeping fig, similar to weeping fig but grows like a vine

Ficus sagittata looks like the classic Ficus benjamina but is a liana or hanging plant. This climbing fig is native to Southeast Asia where it is very widespread and common. Like other "strangler figs," it grows its stems around a host tree and can completely encase it over time. However, unlike its more aggressive relatives, it remains more or less harmless to the host tree because the stems do not grow particularly thick and do not crush the host tree.

In terms of leaf shape, it resembles the weeping fig, Ficus benjamina. But F. sagittata is a climber, not an upright tree. It also looks very stylish in a hanging basket. This variegated form has pink-edged leaves. Very beautiful, easy to care for, and also fast-growing, especially in summer.

This fig likes it warm, at 20 degrees Celsius or more, and partial shade. Increased humidity of 60 percent or more is also good for it. It should not dry out and is not particularly demanding on the substrate; in fact, quite the opposite, as it grows well in ordinary potting soil and even hydroponically.

You should not be deterred by the fact that, like all figs really, it regularly sheds leaves. This is not a cause for panic but completely normal. What it does not like is frequent changes of location, and it reacts somewhat resentfully to this by shedding many leaves. But even this should not be a cause for concern, as young plants, in particular, adapt quickly. This takes much longer with large, established plants.

Care

Thrives in partial shade with temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius. Humidity 60 percent or more. Keep the soil evenly moist, do not let it dry out. Grows in ordinary potting soil or hydroponically.

Do not move the plant unnecessarily as it sheds leaves when moved. Regular leaf drop is normal and no cause for concern. Buy Ficus sagittata 'pink variegata' online