Plant guide

Strangler fig.

Ficus aurea

Pronounced FY-kus AW-ree-uh

Also known as Florida Strangler, Florida Strangler Fig, Golden Fig

The strangler fig starts its life as an epiphyte growing on another tree. It eventually sends roots down to the ground, thickening around the host until it stands on its own. It is a fascinating native tree that provides a home for many birds and insects.

At a glance

Care level: Moderate
Plant type: Tree
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Indoor light: Bright indirect
Water: Every 5 to 10 days
Mature size: 50 to 60 feet
Growth rate: Fast

Care

Give this tree plenty of space as it grows quite large and needs room for its roots. Keep an eye out for yellowing leaves which often signal overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure it gets consistent warmth and high humidity to mimic its natural tropical home.

Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Feeding: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the active growing season.
Pruning: Prune only to remove dead or damaged branches during the dormant season.
Repotting: Repot when the roots have filled the current container or the growth slows down.
Soil: Well draining sandy or loamy soil
Soil pH: 6.0 to 7.5

Safety

Pets: This plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.

How to identify it

Glossy leathery oval leaves
Aerial roots hanging from branches
Small round yellow or red figs
Thick trunk made of fused roots

Science

Family: Moraceae
Genus: Ficus
Order: Rosales
Class: Magnoliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Also in

Plants toxic to cats and dogs

Is your strangler fig looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.