Ficus macrophylla
Moreton bay fig
Overview
Ficus macrophylla is a large evergreen tree in the Moraceae reaching 50-100 feet (15-30 m) tall, with a broad spreading canopy often wider than the tree is tall. The trunk develops prominent buttress roots at the base, and mature trees produce aerial roots that thicken into supplementary trunks. Leaves are leathery and elliptic, 4-10 inches (10-25 cm) long, glossy dark green above with a rusty-brown underside. Cut stems and leaves exude milky white latex. Small flowers are enclosed within figs 0.4-1 inch (1-2.5 cm) across that ripen from green to purple, each pollinated by a specific fig wasp. The species often begins life as an epiphyte on another tree, sending roots to the ground and eventually enclosing the host in a strangler habit. Growth is moderate to rapid in warm climates. The extensive surface and structural roots lift paving and damage foundations and drains, which limits use near buildings.
Native Range
Native to the east coast of Australia, from central New South Wales north through Queensland, and to Lord Howe Island. Grows in subtropical and warm-temperate rainforest, often beginning on rock outcrops or as an epiphyte on other trees.Suggested Uses
Planted as a shade and specimen tree in large parks, on rural properties, and in wide streetscapes where root space is unrestricted, set at least 50 feet (15 m) from buildings. Grown as a container or indoor foliage plant when young, which restricts its size. Canopy spread and root reach make it unsuited to small residential gardens.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height50' - 100'
Width/Spread60' - 130'
Reaches mature size in approximately 30 years
Colors
Bloom Information
Flowers are tiny and enclosed within the developing figs, so there is no visible floral display. Figs form mainly in spring and summer and can be present through much of the year in warm climates. Each fig depends on its specific pollinating wasp, Pleistodontes froggatti, to set viable seed.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Dark green with rusty-brown undersideGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grows in full sun to part shade in deep, well-drained soil with consistent moisture when young. Tolerates a range of soils once established and withstands coastal exposure and short dry spells. Frost damages young trees, and mature trees tolerate only light frost. The extensive root system needs open ground set well back from structures, paving, and pipes. Trees grown in confined soil or as indoor specimens stay far smaller. Few pests cause significant damage, though fig psyllids and leaf-spot fungi may mark the foliage.Pruning
Tolerates pruning to remove deadwood or lift the canopy, done in late spring or summer. Cut surfaces bleed copious milky latex. Removal of large limbs creates wounds that are slow to seal and provide entry points for decay.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
late springsummer
Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 15 gallons