Ficus benghalensis BANYAN TREE (30 seeds)

Banyan Tree, also known as Strangler Fig or Ficus benghalensis in Latin, is a tree native to India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. It belongs to the Moraceae family. It is possible to create a magnificent exotic bonsai with this species.

Strangler fig seeds are brown, small, perfectly round, and measure approximately 1 millimeter in diameter.

It possesses dense and luxuriant foliage. Its large, glossy, oval, and elliptical leaves can reach up to 30 cm in length. They are a deep green with a smooth texture and a well-marked central vein. The foliage is very thick, creating generous shade.

Its flowers are barely visible because they develop inside a structure called a syconium, a type of capsule. The flowering is discreet, often hidden within the foliage, and does not manifest in a spectacular way.

Fruits of the Bengal Fig are small rounded figs, about 2 to 4 cm in diameter, turning yellow to orange when ripe. They appear after flowering and often attract birds due to their sweet flavor.

The ripe fig is edible and can be consumed. As it grows, the Pagoda Fig produces aerial roots hanging from horizontal branches, which form true roots when they touch the ground. The spread of its roots can create a forest all on its own.

- Uses:

The Bengal Fig is a versatile plant with numerous uses. Traditionally, its leaves and roots are used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various conditions such as diabetes, digestive disorders, and inflammation. The sap of this fig tree is sometimes used as a natural healing agent for minor wounds.
Do not use for medicinal purposes without seeking medical advice.

Furthermore, its hard and resistant wood is used to make furniture, sculptures, and artisanal objects.

Finally, this tree plays an important role in environmental protection: its roots help stabilize soils, preventing erosion, while its foliage provides a habitat for many birds and insects.

- Germination, Sowing of Seeds:

• The most favorable period to sow Banyan tree begins during the months of June and July.
• Prepare a tray of fine peat that has been previously moistened.
• Sprinkle the seeds on top without covering them.
• Water gently using a hand sprayer.
• Place the culture in a very warm spot where the temperature must be at least 35°C.
• Germination will generally begin within 3 to 6 weeks after sowing.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

Ficus benghalensis prefers well-drained soil rich in organic humus. A substrate composed of garden soil mixed with humiferous substrate and a bit of perlite will be perfectly suitable.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

This Ficus enjoys bright exposure with indirect or sunny light. It can tolerate a few hours of direct sunlight per day but must be protected from the scorching midday rays to avoid stress.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

Native to India, it tolerates temperatures between 15°C and 30°C. It is not very hardy and must be protected from the cold, as it is sensitive to frost. Outdoors, it is advisable to grow it in regions where temperatures remain mild.

- Watering / Water Requirements:

This Bengal Fig requires moderate watering, allowing the soil surface to dry between two waterings. During the growth period, it demands regular humidity, but it does not tolerate stagnant water. In winter, reduce the frequency of watering.

- Multiplication / Reproduction:

Multiplication is mainly carried out by semi-ripe branch cuttings or by air layering.

- Pests / Diseases:

It can be attacked by pests such as scale insects and sometimes whiteflies. It is also susceptible to developing fungal diseases like root rot if the soil is too wet.