Creeping Fig

The Ficus pumila [FY-kus] [POO-mil-uh] is a fast-growing, climbing vine often referred to as the “creeping fig.” Ficus repens is also a synonym.

It’s part of the Ficus genus and the Moraceae family, which is commonly called the mulberry family or fig family.

Ficus pumila can grow:

Up and along a trellis

Planted in a hanging basket

As a ground cover

To cover a wall, fence, or grown on a topiary

It doesn’t require full sun or a lot of water, making it a simple plant to grow.

 

Creeping Fig Care

These plants grow at a fast pace, eventually reaching up to 15 feet in length, when left to grow. It only has an average spread of three to six feet.

The recommended for growing in USDA hardiness zones 9 – 11. This means it tolerates some cold temperatures. However, it grows best in warm regions.

Young plants produce small, heart-shaped leaves measuring about one inch long. As the plant matures and thickens, it starts producing larger, thicker green leaves.

Eventually, the leaves should be about four inches long and have an oblong shape.

Do These Plants Produce Flowers?

While climbing fig can produce flowers, you’ll rarely see them, especially if you choose to grow the plant indoors or in colder climates.

On mature plants, the thickest stems produce fuzzy pear-shaped fruits.

These fruit are typically about 2.5 inches long.

However, like the flowers, they may not appear when the plant is grown indoor.

Light Requirements

Plant or place ficus pumila creeping fig in partial shade or sun when growing outdoors.

Complete shade or full sunlight is not always the best option for this houseplant.

When growing indoor, the houseplant should have access to indirect light while avoiding direct afternoon sun.

Basically, creeping fig vine doesn’t tolerate extreme lighting, including full sun or complete shade.

This plant can tolerate more extremes when it adjusts to the temperature. While it prefers warmer climates, it can be grown in colder regions.

However, if your region drops below freezing, the plant should be brought indoors.

Water and Fertilizer Needs

Ficus pumila doesn’t need frequent water during the cold seasons.

During the summer, it should be watered regularly.

The main trick is to avoid overwatering.

Allow the garden soil to get almost completely dry before watering it again.

What Is The Best Soil For Creeping Fig Plant?

This plant is a climbing vine, which requires careful consideration before planting.

As mentioned, it’s a great choice for garden trellises or hanging baskets.

You may also choose to grow it near the borders of your garden and allow it to climb over rocks or other objects.

Grow this plant in just about any garden soil offering good drainage.

When placing it in a container, simply use a well-draining soil-based potting mix.

Transplanting or repotting is easy.

However, it’s best to perform these tasks at the beginning of spring, when the plant awakens from its winter dormancy.

Keeping Pumila From Growing “Out Of Control”

Grooming may be needed to keep the vine from growing out of control. Occasional pruning is recommended, whether you grow it indoors or outdoors.

As mentioned, variegated creeping fig can reach up to 15 feet tall. Trimming the plant won’t damage it and you may need to repeat the pruning process each year.

How To Propagate Creeping Fig Ficus Pumila

To grow more plants, you simply need to cut the stems in the early spring.

Stick the stem cuttings in a pot with normal potting soil.

Place the pot in a location with high humidity and warm temperatures. It should get plenty of sunlight, but not direct sunlight in the afternoon.

When oak leaf creeping fig begins to grow, you can transplant it to its permanent home.

Climbing Ficus Pest Or Disease Problems

The “creeping fig” doesn’t have any serious disease problems or insect issues, but you should watch out for aphids, mealybugs, and mites.

These pests are common nuisances for a wide variety of plants indoors and out.

One issue to watch out for is exposure to the milky sap produced by the stems of the plant.

This substance can cause skin inflammation, which may be severe for some individuals.

Popular Varieties

There are several varieties and cultivars.

• Ficus pumila “Curly” – features curly foliage instead of the heart-shaped or oblong foliage
• Ficus pumila quercifolia – this is the oak leaf variety of the creeping fig
• Ficus pumila variegata – a variegated version perfect for baskets or small pots