Ornatec InternationalSpecies reference sheet ยท ornatecinternational.com
Ficus virens
White Fig
Ficus virens is the banyan-habited fig of South and Southeast Asia, throwing a broad buttressed trunk and a canopy that often spreads wider than the tree stands tall. Twice a year it drops its leaves briefly and refoliates in a flush of pink and coral new growth, which is the most striking thing about it.
It is a park and boulevard tree for large sites only. The root system is powerful and opportunistic, and it should be kept well away from paving, drainage and structures.
Specifications
- Height20 to 30 metres
- Width20 to 35 metres
- Native toSouth and Southeast Asia through to northern Australia
- FoliageOvate leaves that flush pink and coral after a brief leafless period; briefly deciduous, usually twice a year
- Growth rateFast
Conditions
- SoilTolerates a wide range of soils, including poor and compacted ground
- LightFull sun
- WaterModerate; drought-tolerant once established
- ClimateThrives in tropical and humid subtropical regions
Additional Features
- UsesHeavy shade in large parks, civic grounds and boulevard verges with generous root volume
- SpacingPlant 15 to 20 metres apart, and no closer than 10 metres to any structure or service run
- Low MaintenanceLittle crown pruning is required, though root management must be designed in from the outset
- Pest ResistanceGenerally robust; fig wasps and thrips cause cosmetic damage only
- Drought ToleranceEstablished trees hold their canopy well through dry seasons
- Wildlife AttractionHeavy fig crops feed birds, fruit bats and, in its native range, primates
- Seasonal AppealThe pink and coral refoliation flush is the principal ornamental event of the year
- FormA broad spreading crown over a buttressed trunk, often carrying aerial roots in humid climates
The White Fig is a magnificent large-scale shade tree for sites that can genuinely accommodate it, and a costly mistake on sites that cannot.
Availability by project review. Sizes, quantities, origin and export readiness are confirmed after your plant schedule is reviewed against destination, timing and quarantine requirements. MEWA certified for supply into Saudi Arabia; Australian Export Registered Establishment.
Enquiries: sales@ornatecinternational.com
310 Donkin Rd, Utchee Creek QLD 4871, Australia
Prepared 09 September 2026