Creeping fig (Ficus pumila)

Also known as: Creeping Fig, Climbing Fig, Creeping Ficus

The creeping fig (Ficus pumila) originates from East Asia, specifically China, Japan, and Vietnam. Additionally, it has become naturalized in certain areas of the United States. While it is often grown as a houseplant, it's important to note that the plant's sap is toxic and can cause inflammation, as highlighted by the FDA's Database of Poisonous Plants.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Creeping fig

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Vine

Plant Height

2.5 m to 4 m

Spread

90 cm to 1.8 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Green

Images of Creeping fig

Quickly Identify Creeping fig

Heart-shaped juvenile leaves grow into large, leathery adult leaves (2 to 4 inches / 5 to 10 cm).

Stems produce milky sap, cling using roots in youth, then grow horizontally with woody texture.

Fruit shifts from green to purple, covered in dense hairs, unpalatable despite attractive appearance.

Minute inconspicuous flowers enclosed in fig receptacles, facilitating pollination by fig wasps.

Vine aggressively climbs, reaching heights of 8 to 15 feet (2.4 to 4.5 meters) and spreading 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters).

Scientific Classification of Creeping fig

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Family

Mulberry

Genus

Fig trees

Species

Creeping fig

Planting and Growing of Creeping fig

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

5.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Creeping fig?

When watering Ficus pumila, ensure the soil is evenly moist, about 200 ml for a medium-sized pot. Water should thoroughly wet the soil until water begins to drain from the bottom of the pot, indicating saturation.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Creeping fig? ›

What should I do if my Creeping fig is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Creeping fig? ›

How to save an overwatered Creeping fig? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Creeping fig?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 3 to 6 hours daily

Ficus pumila prefers partial sun to full shade, ideally in indirect light. Such environments support lush, healthy foliage, enhancing growth without the risks of light-induced stress.

How much light does Ficus pumila need? ›

What are the solutions to achieve ideal lighting for Ficus pumila? ›

What benefits does Ficus pumila receive from optimal lighting? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Creeping fig?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range for Ficus pumila is between 65°F and 77°F. In this range, the plant can perform its physiological processes efficiently, promoting healthy growth and development. Maintaining these temperatures ensures that the plant has enough warmth to support its metabolic needs while avoiding the stress that can be caused by excessive heat.

What Soil is Best for Creeping fig?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Peat soil

Soil PH: 5.5 ~ 7.5

Ficus pumila favors soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. This helps the plant stay hydrated and reduces the need for frequent watering, especially in warm climates. The plant thrives in nutrient-rich soil, which provides essential minerals and organic matter for healthy growth and vibrant foliage. Well-aerated soil is crucial as it allows roots to access adequate oxygen, thus promoting robust root health and overall plant vitality.

How to Fertilize Creeping fig?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Ficus pumila, it's important to balance the right amount of nutrient supply. A liquid fertilizer should be used in a diluted concentration of about 50% of the recommended dose to avoid root burn. Solid fertilizers can be applied in moderation, ensuring not to overdo it, which could harm the plant.

How to Prune Creeping fig?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by identifying the overgrowth and any dead or damaged leaves. Using sharp shears, trim the plant back to its desired shape, cutting close to a node for best results. Trim longer vines, cutting them back by about one-third of their length. This will stimulate new growth, making the plant bushier and fuller. Remove any yellowing or wilting leaves immediately to prevent the spread of potential disease. Make cuts at the base of the leaf stem just where it attaches to the vine.

How to Propagate Creeping fig plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Select healthy stems that are about 10 cm (4 inches) long and free of any diseases or pest damage. Cut just below a node, and remove the lower leaves to reduce transpiration.

Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder or gel to encourage faster root development, ensuring there is adequate coverage for optimal results.

Insert the cuttings into a pot filled with well-draining medium such as a mix of peat and perlite. Firm the soil around the cutting and water gently to settle the soil.

How to Repot Creeping fig plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Ficus pumila should be repotted when it becomes root-bound, typically evident when roots start emerging from the drainage holes or the plant seems to be growing slower than usual. The best time to repot is during its active growth phase in spring or early summer when the plant can quickly recover from any root disturbance.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one and has ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A slightly larger pot encourages the plant's root growth, providing it room to expand while ensuring adequate drainage to avoid root rot.

Opt for a well-draining, loamy soil mix as it offers a balanced structure, retaining enough moisture without becoming waterlogged. This type of soil mimics the plant’s native conditions, allowing roots to breathe and preventing fungal issues.

Toxicity of Creeping fig

Is Creeping fig toxic to cat?

Creeping fig presents a minor toxicity risk to cats, particularly when they consume it in large quantities. The main issue arises from the plant's sap, which harbors toxic components. If a cat ingests considerable amounts of creeping fig, it may exhibit signs of physical discomfort or illness. In these instances, it is crucial for pet owners to act swiftly by consulting a veterinary hospital to safeguard the health and well-being of their feline friend.

Is Creeping fig toxic to dog?

Creeping fig presents a mild toxicity risk for dogs. Although the plant does not possess significant toxicity, issues may occur if a dog ingests it in substantial amounts. The main concern associated with creeping fig is its sap or juice, which harbors toxic components capable of causing poisoning in dogs. If consumed, symptoms might manifest as gastrointestinal disturbances such as vomiting or diarrhea. Dog owners should remain vigilant and deter their pets from gnawing on or swallowing parts of creeping fig. Should a dog ingest a considerable quantity of this plant, it is imperative to seek urgent veterinary attention to guarantee adequate treatment and management of any possible poisoning.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.