Ficus pumila

Creeping Fig

Vine

This evergreen vine self-adheres to any surface it climbs and can be very slow to establish but very aggressive once it catches on. Young plants have small crinkly leaves while mature plants have 2- to 4-inch leaves that cover densely and give plant a completely different look.

Temperature

Hardy to about 15F.

Water requirements

Moderate to ample.

Sun

Filtered to full shade. Likes north and east exposures.

Soil

Prefers improved garden soil.

Maintenance

Periodic to constant.

Disadvantages

Will pull stucco off frame when removed. Fruit and leaf litter. Subject to Texas root rot and fig mosaic virus. Roots are invasive and vigorous vines may disrupt roof tiles or cover windows if not controlled. Will damage wooden structures.

Fruit or Seeds

Fruit doesn't appear for decades and is inedible.

Uses

Cover fences and walls.

Origin

Native of eastern Asia. Member of the Moraceae family.

Cultivars

'Minima' is smaller, with leaves that appear to stay juvenile longer.

Themes

Woodsy, Informal, Tropical

Return to Index