Council tree (Ficus altissima)

Also known as: Lofty Fig, Council Tree

A well-liked choice for indoor and patio settings in its smaller varieties, the Ficus altissima, also known as the council tree, can soar to heights of up to one hundred feet in the wild. It features a broad canopy of waxy leaves that remain vibrant year-round. Known for its parasitic tendencies, this tree frequently begins life on a host tree, eventually enveloping and suffocating it. By the time the host tree perishes, the council tree has typically developed a self-sufficient root system.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Council tree

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

4.5 m to 12 m

Spread

4.5 m to 9 m

Leaf Color

Green Orange

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

N/A

Images of Council tree

Quickly Identify Council tree

Ficus altissima can be identified by its large, glossy, oblong leaves with a pronounced midrib. The leaves are usually dark green with a leathery texture. The tree often forms aerial roots and has a smooth, light gray bark. Its fruit are small, round figs, which turn from green to yellow or red when they mature.

Scientific Classification of Council tree

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Rosales

Family

Mulberry

Genus

Fig trees

Species

Council tree

Planting and Growing of Council tree

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Council tree?

For Ficus altissima, ensure that you water thoroughly until the top inch of soil is moist but not soggy. This typically means around 500 ml of water, depending on the size of the pot. The key is to find a balance where the soil feels moist, but excess water can drain freely from the bottom.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Council tree? ›

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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Council tree? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Council tree?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Ficus altissima ideally enjoys partial to full sunlight. The benefit of such lighting includes vibrant foliage, active growth, and optimal photosynthesis, fostering a healthy and attractive plant.

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Council tree?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

For Ficus altissima, the ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 75°F. This range encourages optimal plant growth and ensures that the plant’s metabolic processes occur without stress. Within this temperature range, photosynthesis and nutrient uptake are maximized, providing the plant with necessary energy and health.

What Soil is Best for Council tree?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6 ~ 7.5

Ficus altissima prefers well-draining soil to prevent root rot and ensure healthy growth. Good drainage allows excess water to escape easily, preventing waterlogged conditions that can suffocate the plant's roots. This plant thrives in nutrient-rich soil that can supply essential nutrients for its growth and foliage development. A soil enriched with organic matter can provide a steady supply of nutrients, enhancing the plant's overall health and vibrancy. Ficus altissima benefits from soil with a loose structure that allows air circulation to the roots. Proper aeration in the soil supports better oxygen exchange, vital for root respiration and promoting vigorous plant growth. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Council tree?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Ficus altissima, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. A typical advisable amount is about 200 ml per 12-inch pot, ensuring you avoid leaf burn and promote healthy growth. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Council tree?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

To control the size and shape of your Ficus altissima, start by identifying branches that stick out or disrupt the plant’s desired form. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to make cuts just above a node or leaf to encourage new growth in a specific direction. Ensure you step back occasionally to check the overall balance and appearance of the plant to avoid over-pruning. Inspect the plant for any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. These should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease and to conserve the plant’s energy. Cut these branches back to the base or to healthy tissue, making clean cuts to promote quicker healing. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Council tree plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Choose a healthy, non-flowering stem about 10-15cm long. Make a clean cut just below a node using sanitized pruning shears. Remove leaves from the lower half of the cutting to reduce water loss.

Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder or gel to encourage faster and stronger root development. Ensure the cutting is evenly coated before planting it in a potting medium.

Insert the treated cutting into a well-draining potting mix composed of equal parts perlite and peat moss. Ensure the cutting is stable and not buried too deep. Water lightly to settle the soil.

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How to Repot Council tree plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two to three years

Ficus altissima should be repotted when its roots start to emerge from the drainage holes, or when you notice its growth has slowed significantly, indicating pot-bound roots. Early spring is the best time to repot, as this aligns with its active growth period.

Select a pot that is one size larger and ensures good drainage. It’s important because a pot that’s too big can hold excess moisture, leading to root rot. Terra cotta pots are excellent for allowing airflow to the roots.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix, ideally one that's mixed with perlite or pumice. This choice ensures the roots have ample air circulation and prevents waterlogging, which can harm the roots of your Ficus altissima.

Toxicity of Council tree

Is Council tree toxic to humans?

The council tree presents a moderate toxicity hazard to humans, mainly through its sap. Interaction with the sap, whether by direct contact or accidental ingestion, may result in negative reactions. This sap features irritants that can provoke dermatitis or other skin issues upon skin contact. If swallowed, the sap can cause irritation to the mouth, throat, and digestive system, resulting in symptoms such as excessive salivation, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is crucial for people to exercise caution when handling council tree to prevent these unpleasant and potentially dangerous consequences.

Is Council tree toxic to cat?

The council tree exhibits a light level of toxicity for cats. If cats consume or inadvertently touch the sap of the council tree, they may experience poisoning. Following exposure to the sap, various symptoms signaling discomfort or illness could arise. Although specific symptoms are not detailed, they may differ in severity and should be carefully observed. It is crucial that any cat showing signs of distress after encountering the council tree be promptly taken to a veterinary clinic for necessary treatment.

Is Council tree toxic to dog?

The council tree presents a mild toxicity hazard to dogs. Canines might experience poisoning from this plant either by eating it or by direct exposure to its sap. Should a dog ingest or come into contact with the sap of the council tree, it may display symptoms including skin irritation, vomiting, or diarrhea. Therefore, it is vital for dog owners to keep a watchful eye on their pets and to deter them from chewing on or making contact with the plant. If a dog exhibits signs of poisoning from the council tree, it is imperative to seek prompt veterinary assistance to secure appropriate treatment and ensure a successful recovery.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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