A weeping fig is a popular tree that is native to Australia and many Asian countries. It has been cultivated as a houseplant in many parts of the world. It normally has shiny, dark green leaves that are anywhere from two to five inches (6 to 13 cm) long.
The trunk of this tree is usually long and slender. It may be covered with light brown bark that is normally very smooth to the touch. There often appear to be two or more trunks twisting around one another to form a criss-cross pattern. The leaves mostly appear at the top of the tree, in a very bushy pattern.
This tree is the national tree of Thailand. In this country, a weeping fig tree can grow to be nearly 100 feet (30.48 m) high. It usually has a small fig-like fruit on it when grown in the wild. This often attracts birds, such as doves and pigeons, to the tree, but is not typically harvested for human consumption.
The specimens that are normally grown as houseplants are often referred to as ficus trees. These varieties usually grow to between four and five feet (1.22 to 1.52 m) high. Usually, they also do not bear any fruit.
These houseplants typically grow well in a five gallon (18.93 l) container. They may be placed near a bright window, on a porch, or in a sunny area of the yard as long as they are protected from strong winds. They should be brought indoors whenever outdoor temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
The weeping fig sometimes has an aggressive root system that can lift sidewalks or other concrete structures, like patios and porches. It may also grow into the foundation of a home and cause damage. The roots have also been known to invade septic lines, causing them to need repair or be replaced. For this reason, it is not usually recommended that this tree be grown near buildings or roadways.
When placed indoors, this tree sometimes drops its leaves, if it is placed too close to a source of heat. It may also shed foliage if it is either under or over-watered. Changing the location of the plant and modifying its water intake is usually stops or reduces the dropping of the leaves.
This plant often looks nice when placed behind a small piece of furniture, as an accent. It can also be used to fill empty corners or nooks because of its height and bushy appearance. No matter where it is placed, a weeping fig should be in a sturdy container that is level on the bottom so it will not topple over. One of these houseplants can often provide colorful decor to a home or office for many years after it is purchased.
