Ficus religiosa
Ficus religiosa
Sacred Fig
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Common Names
Sacred FigBodhi TreePeepalBo Tree
Context
nativeRegion
Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia
usdaZones
10–12
companionPlants
Banyan (Ficus benghalensis), Neem (Azadirachta indica), Ashoka (Saraca asoca)
culturalUses
Sacred in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism; known as the Bodhi tree where Buddha attained enlightenment; used in traditional medicine and religious ceremonies.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun to partial shade; prefers bright indirect light if grown indoors.
WateringWater moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
SoilWell-drained, loamy soil with good fertility; tolerates a range of soil types but dislikes waterlogging.
FertilizerFeed monthly during growing season (spring–summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity; tolerates average indoor humidity.
TemperatureIdeally 20–35°C (68–95°F); sensitive to frost and cold drafts.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitDeciduous tree with a broad, spreading canopy and distinctive heart-shaped leaves.
Mature SizeUp to 30 meters (98 feet) tall in optimal conditions.
Growth RateModerate to fast growth under ideal conditions.
BloomingFlowers are tiny and contained within fig fruits; flowering inconspicuous.
DormancyBrief dormant period during cold or dry seasons.
Propagation
MethodsSeed, Cuttings, Air layering
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonSpring to early summer for cuttings; seeds can be sown in warm season.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPrune to shape and remove weak or crowded branches; best done in late winter or early spring.
RepottingYoung plants benefit from annual repotting; mature trees seldom need repotting if grown outdoors.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to scale, mealybugs, and aphids; rarely affected by significant diseases.
ToxicityMildly toxic if ingested; sap may cause skin irritation.
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