Description
A medium-sized tree with large, rough, hairy leaves and small, edible, red or yellow fruits, widely distributed from the Himalayas to Australia.
Germination Guide
🌍 India, southern China, Southeast Asia, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, New Guinea, and northern Australia
Moderate
Ficus hispida, commonly known as the hairy fig or opposite leaf fig, is a small evergreen tropical tree native to Asia and northern Australia, recognizable by its distinctive hairy figs and leaves. Seeds are photoblastic (requiring light) and have intermediate difficulty for germination, requiring consistent warmth, high humidity, and light to achieve good germination rates of around 60%. This is a keystone species in tropical ecosystems, particularly valued as a pioneer species for forest restoration.
Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in
14 – 208 days
Temperature
Min 22°C
Ideal 25°C
Max 35°C
🌡️ Temperature alternation recommended
— Temperature fluctuation between 25/35°C (warm days and cooler nights) promotes better germination rates. Lower temperatures (22/23°C) may inhibit germination, especially with inadequate light
Substrate moisture
💧💧 High
Seed Pre-treatment
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🔨
Hot water scarification
Soak seeds in pre-boiled water cooled to approximately 65°C (150°F) for 10 minutes. Alternative methods: diluted bleach and vinegar solution (70% warm water, 15% bleach, 15% vinegar) for 12 hours, or GA3 solution for 24 hours
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📋
Additional notes
Hot water treatment or alternative dormancy-breaking methods are recommended. Ficus hispida seeds are gap-demanding and require warm temperatures with adequate light for germination
Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
Well-draining seed raising mix, peat moss, or light porous pathogen-free substrate
Recommended container
Plastic pot with transparent cover or humidity dome for maintaining moisture and creating greenhouse conditions
Growing Tips
Use fresh seeds whenever possible, as Ficus hispida seeds are relatively short-lived. Sow seeds on the surface of soil and gently press for good contact - do NOT cover completely as light is essential for germination. Keep soil consistently moist throughout germination period; drying out will kill the seed embryo. Maintain a humid environment with the cover (leaving a corner uncovered for air circulation after germination begins). Remove cover gradually over 1-2 weeks once germination starts. Expect germination to begin around day 11-14, with peak germination by day 14. Seedlings can be transplanted once they have 2-4 true leaves. In tropical areas, this species prefers dappled, part-shaded locations and well-draining soil.
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