Moreton Bay Fig
Ficus macrophylla · Evergreen Broadleaf (Hardwood)
Plant Family
Moraceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree / Ornamental / Tropical
Variety / Cultivar
Not specified; likely the straight species
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 10-11; sensitive to frost and cannot survive freezing temperatures for extended periods.
About This Tree
Massive, spreading evergreen tree with a wide, dense canopy. It is most famous for its enormous buttress roots that flare out across the ground and its complex network of thick branches.
Leaf Characteristics
Large, oval to elliptical, 6-10 inches long. They are leathery, glossy dark green on top with a brownish-gold felt-like underside (produced by fine hairs). Arrangement is alternate.
Bark Characteristics
Light gray to brownish-gray, generally smooth but heavily textured by massive buttressing and occasionally aerial roots. It becomes more gnarled and corrugated with age.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to eastern Australia; widely adapted to Mediterranean and subtropical climates globally
Growing Season
Evergreen with year-round growth in warm climates; flowering and fruiting can occur throughout much of the year
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun preferred. High water needs when establishing, but mature trees are moderately drought-tolerant. Prefers well-draining soil.
Mature Size
Can reach heights of 100-200 feet in the wild, with a canopy spread often exceeding its height (up to 150 feet or more).
Special Characteristics
Aggressive root system capable of damaging infrastructure. High salt tolerance and resistance to wind. Produces small, purple, edible but tasteless figs.
Wildlife & Ecology
Critical food source for various fruit-eating birds and bats. It has a symbiotic relationship with its specific pollinating wasp, Pleistodontes froggatti.