Rock fig care guide
Ficus petiolaris
Also known as: Petiolate fig, Ficus palmeri
Pets and children
Caution advised
The white latex from cut stems irritates skin and mouth and may cause drooling or vomiting if chewed; keep it out of reach and see a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Rock fig
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 7 days
- A summer grower that drinks well in leaf: as a guide, water thoroughly once the surface dries, since drying out in midsummer drops the leaves.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 10 days
- As it cools, water a few days after the soil dries, as a guide.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 20 days
- Once leafless, keep it on the dry side with a little water about one to two weeks after the soil dries; if it holds leaves in a warm room, water when dry.
Light and placement for Rock fig
Generally full sun, outdoors or at a bright window from spring to fall; good light thickens the trunk and deepens the red veins, and if hot afternoon sun scorches the leaves, shade it slightly.
Overwintering Rock fig
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
As a guide, move it to a bright window indoors when nights drop below about 10°C and keep it above 5°C, watering less once the leaves fall; in a warm room it holds its leaves through winter.
Fertilizing and repotting Rock fig
Fertilizer
Slow-release fertilizer every two months or diluted liquid feed about once or twice a month from May to September while in leaf; none in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Rock fig
- Watered on after winter leaf drop, the roots rot.
- In poor light the stems stretch and the leaves thin out.
- Cold drafts or sudden temperature swings make it shed leaves.
Tips for growing Rock fig
- Pinching the tips in spring makes it branch, balancing the thick trunk.
- Winter leaf drop and a slightly shrunken trunk are signs of rest; both recover in spring.
- Planting the base a little high at repotting shows off the swollen trunk.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
