Moreton Bay Fig
Ficus macrophylla · Evergreen Broadleaf
Plant Family
Moraceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree / Ornamental
Variety / Cultivar
Not specific (wild type common in cultivation)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 9b - 11; cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures for extended periods.
About This Tree
A massive, spreading evergreen known for its immense buttress roots and a wide, dense canopy. It often begins life as a hemi-epiphyte (strangler fig), eventually developing a colossal trunk and extensive surface root system. In maturity, it provides deep shade and a grand, architectural form.
Leaf Characteristics
Leaves are simple, alternate, and leathery. They are large (6-10 inches long), oval to elliptical, with a dark glossy green upper surface and a distinct brownish-rusty underside (tomentum).
Bark Characteristics
Smooth and grey-colored bark, even on very large specimens; however, it becomes highly irregular and folded as the enormous buttress roots develop at the base.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern Australia (primarily Queensland and New South Wales)
Growing Season
Perennial evergreen; grows year-round in tropical/subtropical climates with peak growth in spring and summer.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires Full Sun to Partial Sun. Medium water needs; prefers regular moisture but develops moderate drought tolerance once established in deep soil.
Mature Size
Can reach heights of 60 to 180 feet with a canopy spread that often exceeds its height; growth rate is moderate to fast in ideal conditions with a lifespan of 100-150+ years.
Special Characteristics
Famous for massive buttress roots that can extend several meters from the trunk; produces small, purple-spotted edible (but not particularly palatable) figs; very high salt and pollution tolerance.
Wildlife & Ecology
Critical ecological role in its native habitat; it depends entirely on the fig wasp (Pleistodontes froggatti) for pollination and provides essential food/fruit for many bird species, bats, and small mammals.