Native range: Southern Asia. Description: A very large tree growing to a height in excess of 100 feet and known to reach more than 600 feet in diameter with a forest of secondary trunks and aerial roots supporting heavy lateral branches. Leaves are pubescent, elliptic to ovate, to 10 inches long and 6 inches wide. The basal veins on the leaf of this species form a double "V." The 1/2- to 3/4-inch diameter figs begin orange-red but ripen red and are produced in axillary pairs. Often mistaken for the lofty fig, Ficus altissima, which has glabrous leaves and basal veins on the leaf that form a single "V."
Ecological threat: Banyan fig has only recently been documented to escape cultivation in Florida and it is believed that the specific fig wasp that pollinates this species in its native range has been inadvertently imported into Florida. Like other figs, banyan fig often begins life as an epiphyte, growing on other trees (especially palms) until it sends its own roots into the ground, often encircling its host, and eventually displacing the host tree. It has also been found growing as a lithophyte on rock walls, stone or concrete buildings, and in cracks on bridges and turnpike overpasses. This species grows to immense proportions and has the ability to compete heavily with native trees in hardwood forests.
Distribution in Florida: Central and southern Florida.
Background: Introduced as a large shade tree but unsuitable for the urban landscape due to its immense size and extensive root system. Sometimes seen as a street tree in the Miami area.
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