Ficus religiosa
TAXONOMY
FamilyMoraceae
GenusFicus
Zone10
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Ficus religiosa, commonly known as the sacred fig or Bo tree, is a species of fig native to the Indian subcontinent and Indochina. It is a large, fast-growing deciduous tree that can reach up to 30 meters in height. The tree is known for its religious significance in Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. It has heart-shaped leaves with a distinctive extended tip and is often found in seasonally dry tropical climates.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Bodhi Tree
Peepal Tree
Sacred Fig
Urostigma Affine
Urostigma Religiosum
Ficus caudata
Ficus peepul
Ficus religiosa var. cordata
Ficus religiosa var. rhynchophylla
Ficus rhynchophylla
Ficus superstitiosa
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy2 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
WANT MORE TIPS?
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Ficus religiosa thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers warm temperatures. It requires moderate humidity and should be watered when the soil is almost completely dry. The plant can tolerate some drought but performs best with regular watering. It is important to provide good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.Soil
The sacred fig prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains some moisture but does not become waterlogged. A mix of garden soil, sand, and compost works well. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Fertilize Ficus religiosa with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to support healthy growth. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormant period.Repotting
Repot the plant every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one and ensure it has drainage holes. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, trim any damaged roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Ficus religiosa can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. For cuttings, take a healthy branch and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a warm, bright location. Seeds can be sown in a similar soil mix and kept moist until germination.Pruning
Prune the sacred fig to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Pruning can be done during the dormant season or early spring. Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the plant.Toxicity
Ficus religiosa is generally non-toxic to pets and humans. However, the sap can cause skin irritation in some individuals, so it is advisable to handle the plant with care and wash hands after contact.Additional
Ficus religiosa is a revered tree in many cultures and is often planted near temples and religious sites. It is known for its longevity and can live for several centuries. The tree provides ample shade and is also valued for its ornamental beauty.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
