| Scientific name |
Ficus microcarpa var. Nitida |
| Common name |
Ficus nitida tall, Cuban Laurel, Indian Laurel Fig, Green Island Fig, Chinese Banyan
|
| Temperature |
25-35 °C |
| Humidity |
40-50% |
| Light |
Direct/indirect light. |
| Watering |
Water everyday & keep moist |
| Pests |
Mites, mealybugs, thrips and scale. |
| Pet friendliness |
|
| Maximum plant height |
1-3m |
| Potting mix |
Potting soil/red soil/manure/perlite |
| Pot requirement |
Good drainage & repot every 1-2 years |
| Nutrition |
Apply manure for first 15 days and npk for next 15 days |
| Pruning & training |
Remove dead & diseased leaves with sterile shears |
| Common color & season |
|
| Description |
The indian laurel is another species of Ficus Nitida,native to india, it is often found in north africa and the middle east growing as a majestic shade tree. Ficus Nitida grows at a moderate rate to a height of 8 metres, and equal spread with strongly ascending, erect branches and smooth, glossy bright green leaves. Tolerant of many soils, it grows well in sand and does best in a fertile, moist soil. Tolerance to salinity is only medium. F. Microcarpa var. Nitida requires full sun and is tolerant of high temperatures and low humidity, although it thrives better with high humidity, as in gulf regions. It should be irrigated regularly in summer and will require deep watering only occasionally in the winter. Propagation is by cuttings and air layering. F. Microcarpa var. Nitida is a variety of f. Microcarpa (also known as f. Retusa), which has larger leaves and longer, pendulous branches. Like many other ficus species, its roots can be aggressive and buckle hard paving. Indian laurel is prone to attacks by mites, mealybugs, thrips and scale. Suitable for gardens and containers, it is an excellent tree for public open spaces, and pathway shade, where the winters are warm and frost-free. |
