FICUS NITIDA

Botanical Name: Ficus microcarpa ‘Nitida’
Common Names: Indian Laurel Fig, Ficus Nitida
Mature Size: 25–40 feet (7–12 meters) in height, 30–40 feet (9–12 meters) in spread
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates a variety of soil types, including loamy and sandy substrates
Water Needs: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular irrigation in dry climates
Foliage: Dense, glossy, bright green leaves forming a broad, rounded canopy
Flowers: Inconspicuous; small internal flowers produce small, non-edible figs
Growth Rate: Fast

Uses:

Shade Tree: Ficus nitida is widely appreciated for its dense foliage and symmetrical canopy, making it ideal for providing ample shade in urban landscapes, streetscapes, and large gardens.

Privacy Screens and Hedges: Often used as a clipped hedge or screen due to its fast growth and thick foliage, perfect for creating natural barriers.

Topiary and Formal Landscaping: Suitable for shaping and pruning, it is frequently used in formal landscape designs and topiary applications.

Benefits:

Evergreen Coverage: Maintains its dense, green canopy year-round, ensuring continuous shade and aesthetic value.

Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care and tolerates pruning well.

Urban Resilience: Adapts well to pollution, heat, and reflected sunlight, making it a favorite for city environments and streetscapes.

Wildlife Shelter: Provides habitat and shelter for birds and other small fauna.

Structural Presence: Its bold form and lush foliage create a strong architectural element in both residential and commercial landscapes.

Ficus nitida is a vigorous, evergreen tree valued for its lush appearance, rapid growth, and exceptional performance in hot, sunny environments. Whether used as a shade tree, privacy hedge, or landscape centerpiece, it delivers lasting beauty and functional value in a wide range of settings.