Ficus ingens - S.A. No. 55
Red-leafed Rock Fig

JUDITH VAN DIGGELEN

The bark on young branches is smooth and green, but turns grey on older branches, peeling off in small, thin flakes.

The leaves are simple, smooth and glossy green; coppery red when young.

Figs are borne singly or paired in leafaxils from June to December; green and turning purplish red when ripe.

The habitat is rocky outcrops or hills in woodland or forest.

The Red-leafed Rock Fig makes a very successful container plant and looks stunning in Spring with its new red leaves.

The Red-leafed Rock Fig as a Bonsai:- It can be trained in various bonsai styles, but looks best when grown in association with rocks.

• Cultivation - grows well from cuttings or truncheons. Cuttings can be made from either soft or hard wood. truncheons must be left in the shade for a few days prior to planting. Planting in river sand promotes root development and prevents fungi from attacking the tip of the- truncheon or cutting.
• The Red-leafed Rock Fig is a fast grower and can withstand cold, but should be protected from frost for the first two years.
• Growing mix - likes a light, friable growing medium. Will flourish in the club soil mixed with equal quantities of river sand.
• Watering - moderate in summer but keep relatively (not completely) dry in early spring to enhance the colour of the new leaves.
• Feeding - from spring to autumn using a liquid fertilizer. Do not feed in winter.
• Repotting - best in spring. If the tree is planted on or in a rock, the tree and rock should be repotted together as a unit
• Pruning - will respond well to frequent pruning and can show reasonable leaf reduction.
• Position - can take full sun in summer and only needs winter protection in case of a really severe frost. Will do reasonably well indoors.

1. the milky latex in all parts
2. the presence of stipules covering the growth tips.

Reference: "Making the Most of Indigenous Trees" by Fanie & Julye-Ann Venter.