Ficus pumila L.

Frost tender, root-clinging, evergreen perennial climber.  The leaves of the climbing shots are asymmetrical, while those on the non-climbing stem are oblong, leathery and glossy dark green, to 10cm long.  The hairy figs are white-dotted green, ripening to purple.  To 5m or more.  [RHSE, Hortus, Hilliers’].

Horticultural & Botanical History

Probably introduced to Britain in 1759 or earlier [PD].  ‘Ficus stipulata was, according to Aiton, introduced about the year 1771, but it is comparatively lately that it has become so common a favourite for tapestrying the walls of conservatories, &c., and for which no other plant is so well suited.  It is a native of both China and Japan, extending as far south as Hong Kong.’  [BM t.6657/1882].

History at Camden Park

Listed in the 1845, 1850 and 1857 catalogues [T.448/1845].  Ficus stipulacea was included among a consignement of plants sent by John Bidwill from Kew in November 1843.  [AJCP].  This is the probable source.  Ficus repens was included among desiderata to Loddiges, 6th January 1845. [MP A2933-2, p.28].

Notes

Published Mar 18, 2010 - 02:33 PM | Last updated Mar 18, 2010 - 02:40 PM

Shown are creeping stem, glossy ovate leaves and figs. Curtis's Botanical Magazine t.6657, 1882.

Ficus pumila L. | BM t.6657/1882 | BHL

More details about Ficus pumila L.
Family Moraceae
Category
Region of origin

China, Japan
Synonyms
  • Ficus stipulacea Noronha
  • Ficus stipulata Thunb.
  • Ficus repens Hort.
  • Ficus scandens Lam.
Common Name

Climbing fig, Creeping fig
Name in the Camden Park Record

Ficus stipulacea 
Confidence level high