Sacred fig (Ficus religiosa)

Also known as: Bo tree, Peepal tree

The Bodhi tree, also known as Ficus religiosa, holds sacred significance in Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. While it belongs to the mulberry family, contact with its sap can lead to skin irritations.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Sacred fig

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

15 m to 25 m

Spread

10 m

Leaf Color

Green White

Flower Size

Tiny, not noticeable

Flower Color

White Green

Images of Sacred fig

Quickly Identify Sacred fig

Identify Ficus religiosa by its heart-shaped leaves with a long, tapering tip. The leaves have a prominent, smooth, leathery texture and a distinctive venation pattern.

Scientific Classification of Sacred fig

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Rosales

Family

Mulberry

Genus

Fig trees

Species

Sacred fig

Planting and Growing of Sacred fig

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-82℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

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 Sacred fig?

For Ficus religiosa, watering should be moderate, aimed at keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. It prefers well-drained soil; hence, approximately 500 ml per session is ideal, ensuring the water reaches deep into the root zone.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Sacred fig? ›

What should I do if my Sacred fig is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Sacred fig? ›

How to save an overwatered Sacred fig? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Sacred fig?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Ficus religiosa prefers full to partial sun. Ideal lighting conditions promote dense, vibrant foliage and sustain plant health, contributing to well-balanced physiological processes like photosynthesis.

Optimal Sunlight Duration ›

Solution for Obtaining Ideal Light ›

Benefits of Ideal Light Conditions ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Sacred fig?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 82℉

The ideal temperature range for Ficus religiosa, commonly known as the sacred fig, is between 68°F and 82°F. This range ensures optimal physiological processes such as photosynthesis, respiration, and water absorption. Maintaining these temperatures promotes robust growth and healthy foliage.

What Soil is Best for Sacred fig?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Sandy soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Ficus religiosa thrives in well-draining soil, preventing root rot and ensuring the roots have adequate access to oxygen. This promotes healthy growth and supports the tree's impressive canopy development. Having nutrient-rich soil is crucial for Ficus religiosa. This soil condition ensures that the plant has a constant supply of essential minerals, which contributes to its vibrant leaves and structural strength. While drainage is crucial, the soil should retain some moisture to prevent it from drying out too quickly. This balance allows the tree to absorb water efficiently, promoting steady growth and health. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Sacred fig?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Ficus religiosa, it's important to use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 NPK formulation. Apply liquid fertilizers by diluting them to half-strength in water, approximately 1 liter per plant, to prevent root burn and promote healthy growth. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Sacred fig?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

First, sterilize your pruning shears to prevent disease transmission. Begin by examining the tree for any dead or diseased branches and remove them at the base. Trim back any branches that are crossing over or crowding each other to promote air circulation. Make clean cuts at an angle to encourage proper healing. Finally, step back periodically to assess the shape and balance of the tree, making adjustments as necessary. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Sacred fig plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Collect seeds from a mature Ficus religiosa fruit during the spring or early summer. Clean the seeds and soak them in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat, which will encourage germination.

Select healthy stems from a mature plant, ideally around 10-15cm in length, and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining medium.

Choose a low branch and make a small incision on the underside. Apply a rooting hormone and cover the incision with moist sphagnum moss before securing it with plastic wrap until roots develop.

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How to Repot Sacred fig plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Ficus religiosa needs repotting when you notice roots protruding from the drainage holes or when the soil dries out very quickly after watering. These signs indicate the plant has outgrown its current pot and requires more space to develop.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one and ensures it has adequate drainage holes. A ceramic or clay pot is preferable as it provides stability and allows for air circulation. This choice aids in preventing root rot and helps maintain proper soil moisture levels.

Opt for well-draining, sandy loam soil to support the Ficus religiosa. This soil mix ensures proper aeration and prevents waterlogging, reducing the risk of root rot. Adding perlite or coarse sand can improve drainage and help the plant remain healthy.

Toxicity of Sacred fig

Is Sacred fig toxic to cat?

The sacred fig is known to have a low level of toxicity for cats, which can manifest if they consume excessive amounts of the plant. The toxic elements lie within the plant's sap and juice, posing potential health risks to felines. Following consumption, affected cats may show indications of physical discomfort or distress. Therefore, cat owners need to be alert and discourage their pets from chewing on or eating any parts of the sacred fig. If a cat shows any unusual behavior or symptoms of illness after being in contact with the sacred fig, it is essential to seek prompt veterinary attention to ensure their health and receive suitable treatment. Timely professional intervention can help alleviate the impacts of these mild toxins.

Is Sacred fig toxic to dog?

The sacred fig presents a mild toxicity risk for dogs. Although the plant is not considered highly toxic, consuming it in substantial amounts can result in negative health effects. The major concern centers around the sap or juice of the sacred fig, which contains the toxic elements that may cause poisoning. Dogs can be exposed to these toxins if they chew on or ingest parts of the plant, especially areas where the sap is readily available. Symptoms of poisoning in dogs can manifest as gastrointestinal disturbances, including vomiting and diarrhea, as well as possible skin irritation if there is contact with the sap. It is essential for dog owners to keep a close watch on their pets and limit access to sacred fig to mitigate any potential hazards. Should a dog consume a considerable quantity of sacred fig, it is crucial to seek prompt veterinary assistance to ensure proper treatment and management of any arising symptoms.

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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