10 - 15cm Ficus Petiolaris House Plant 10,5 cm Pot

🌿 Ficus petiolaris — Rock Fig / Petiole Fig

Ficus petiolaris, commonly called the Rock Fig, is a fascinating and highly ornamental species native to arid, rocky regions of Mexico. Known for its striking heart-shaped leaves with bold red or pinkish petioles (leaf stems) and pale green to silvery foliage, this fig is particularly admired for the swollen, textured caudex (base), which stores water and gives the plant its unique, bonsai-like character. This caudiciform growth makes it a favourite among collectors of unusual succulents and drought-tolerant specimens. Though slow-growing, Ficus petiolaris develops a strong architectural presence over time, especially when grown in shallow containers or displayed as a sculptural feature plant. It's ideal for sunny windowsills, dry indoor environments, and minimal watering schedules — thriving with bright light and neglect. An excellent plant for collectors and anyone who appreciates rare, textured foliage and unusual forms.

☀️ Light Requirements

• Indoors: Prefers bright, indirect light to full sun. A south- or west-facing window is ideal.

• Outdoors (mild climates): Can be grown in full sun with some protection from harsh midday rays.

• Too little light: Leads to leggy growth and reduced caudex development.

🌡️ Temperature & Hardiness

• Ideal temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)

• Minimum temperature: Keep above 10°C (50°F); not frost-tolerant

• Hardiness: RHS H1b – suitable for indoor cultivation or greenhouse use in the UK

• Humidity: Thrives in low to moderate humidity; excellent for dry environments.

💧 Watering Needs

• Watering frequency: Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water sparingly.

• Dormancy: May enter a brief dormancy in winter — reduce watering significantly during this period.

• Overwatering risk: High — always err on the dry side to prevent root or caudex rot.

🪴 Soil & Repotting

• Soil type: Very well-draining mix. Use cactus or succulent compost with added perlite, pumice, or coarse sand.

• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

• Repotting: Every 2–3 years or when rootbound. Use shallow pots to emphasise caudex display.

🌱 Feeding

• Growing season (spring–summer): Feed monthly with a diluted, balanced fertiliser.

• Autumn–winter: Stop feeding during dormancy.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Pruning: Minimal. Remove any dead or leggy growth in spring to maintain structure.

• Leaf care: Wipe gently with a dry or slightly damp cloth to remove dust.

• Caudex display tip: Gradually raise the caudex above the soil line over time to create a more pronounced bonsai effect.

🌾 Propagation

• By seed: Possible but slow and difficult to source.

• By cuttings: Semi-hardwood cuttings may root in warm, humid conditions, though less common than seed propagation.

🐛 Pests & Problems

• Common pests: Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects — particularly in dry indoor air.

• Symptoms: Sticky residue, yellowing leaves, or visible insects.

• Treatment: Treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Isolate and inspect regularly.

• Common issues:

  • Root rot: Always due to overwatering or poor drainage.

  • Leaf drop: May occur with sudden environmental changes or during dormancy — normal if temporary.

🧤 Toxicity & Safety

• Toxicity: Like most figs, it contains a milky latex sap that can be irritating to skin and toxic if ingested by pets or humans.

• Precaution: Handle with gloves when pruning and keep out of reach of pets and children.

🏡 Indoor Care Highlights

• A sculptural, rare fig ideal for modern interiors, collectors, and arid plant lovers.

• Excellent for shallow pots, bonsai-style displays, or desert-themed plantings.

• Pairs beautifully with cacti, succulents, and other caudiciform species.

• Exceptionally drought-tolerant and thrives on neglect — perfect for busy plant owners.

• A beautiful conversation piece with year-round appeal and low-maintenance charm.