Ficus pumila

Creeping Fig · Climbing Fig · Creeping Rubber Plant

(FY-kus POO-mil-uh)

At a Glance

Light medium to bright indirect

Water Every 5 days

Humidity 50–80%

Temp. 15–29 °C

Habit Climber

Growth Fast

Care Medium

Height Trailing/climbing stems to 1–3 m indoors

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Origin & Habitat

Central & South China to temperate East Asia and Indo-China; subtropical biome

Description

Small, thin, heart-shaped to oval juvenile leaves on fine clinging stems.

Fast creeping/climbing vine that can cling to rough surfaces with aerial roots.

Botanical Notes

pumila means dwarf or low-growing.

Accepted species in POWO; a climbing shrub or liana with small juvenile leaves commonly used indoors and in terrariums.

Care Guide

Do not let it dry out completely for long. Trim regularly to keep dense and prevent attachment damage.

Repotting

Repot small containers yearly or prune roots/stems to control growth.

Feeding

Monthly in spring and summer at half strength

Common Problems

Crispy leaves from dryness; legginess from low light; sap irritation when pruned.

Notes & Curiosities

Adult outdoor growth can produce much larger leaves than the delicate indoor juvenile form.

⚠ Toxicity: toxic to pets, toxic to humans. Ficus sap can irritate skin and mouth; keep away from pets that chew plants.

Sources