Threats or Importance
The weeping fig provides fruit and nesting sites for birds in Hong Kong.
Plants
Weeping Fig
Scientific Name
Ficus benjamina
Other Common Name(s)
Benjamin Fig
Height
Up to 30 m
Flowering Season
August to November
Fruiting Season
August to November
Reproduction
Pollinated by fig wasps. Seeds dispersed by animals.
Fun Facts
When animals take the seeds to crevices of other trees, this fig may germinate and grow like an epiphyte. Gradually it would gain support by descending its roots and wrapping itself around the host tree, while also receiving sunlight by growing upward. The host tree may fail to obtain nutrients and die.
This fig can remove volatile organic compounds from the atmosphere, including formaldehyde, xylene and ammonia. These compounds are emitted by artificial materials in buildings and may be harmful to humans.
Origins
Australia and Southeast Asia countries, such as Indonesia, Philippines, Myanmar and China
Threats & Conservation
Threats & Conservation
Conservation
