Large climbing fig with hairy leaves from Southeast Asia, attaches to almost all surfaces

Ficus villosa is a large, climbing fig from Southeast Asia with hairy leaves, fantastic growth habit and color. This is a rare species native to Southeast Asia and particularly widespread on the larger islands (Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi) where it can be found everywhere in lowland rainforests up to 1700 meters altitude.

This climbing fig grows upright and hugs its substrate tightly. It is not picky about the substrate it clings to with its aerial roots. In nature, it naturally climbs mainly on trees, but also grows attached to rocks or wooden walls.

It branches little or not at all, so it mostly grows as a single stem with alternate leaves. The youngest leaves have a reddish tinge and become darker green over time. Especially the leaf edges and undersides are very hairy ("villosa" means hairy). The leaves can grow quite large, up to about 20 centimeters long and 15 centimeters wide (in the wild up to 30 centimeters). Due to this size, it is more suitable only for larger terrariums or as a potted plant.

Care

This Ficus should never dry out and likes high humidity of 60% or more. Grows better in shadier areas but can tolerate filtered sunlight. It attaches firmly to almost any surface, even glass! But this can take quite a long time as it does not grow attaching roots at every node.

Grows very tall over time but can easily be pruned. Be careful when pruning, like all Ficus species, F. villosa secretes a skin-irritating milky sap when cut.

For good and fast growth, it should be fertilized regularly. About every two weeks with regular fertilizer for houseplants is sufficient. Ideal temperature 20-28°C.

In the home garden, it is reported to reach 2.4 meters in length, but in the wild, it grows several meters high on trees. Buy Ficus villosa online!