Climbing Fig

Climbing Fig (Ficus 'Repens')

Climbing Fig, often called creeping fig, is a versatile indoor vine with small, heart-shaped juvenile leaves that cling to supports via fine aerial roots; its dense, fast growth creates a neat, green veil on trellises, moss poles, and topiary forms in bright, indirect light.

Distinctive Features

Juvenile foliage is tiny and textured for a tight, elegant look, while mature leaves become larger and thicker; self-clinging stems quickly cover frames and supports for living walls and sculptural shapes.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light; tolerates open shade but avoid harsh midday sun.
• Soil: Well-drained, peat-free potting mix with bark and perlite for airflow.
• Water: Water thoroughly, then allow the top 0.5 to 1 in to dry slightly before watering again.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11 outdoors; grow indoors in cooler regions.
• Humidity: Moderate to high; occasional misting supports dense growth.
• Mature Size: Indoors train to 1 to 6 ft on supports; indefinitely longer with pruning and guidance.
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, about 6.0 to 7.0.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Lush, self-clinging growth creates a living accent on trellises and frames.
• Topiary Forms: Trains readily over wire shapes for custom greenery.
• Moss Poles: Climbs and thickens quickly for a layered, vertical look.
• Shelf or Mantel: Trails softly when grown as a cascading vine in containers.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Follow a soak-and-slightly-dry rhythm; reduce frequency in winter.
• Pruning: Pinch or shear regularly to maintain size and encourage branching; remove any woody, overlong stems.
• Fertilizing: Feed at half strength monthly in spring and summer; pause in low light or cool seasons.
• Mulching: Top-dress with fine bark to buffer roots and retain moisture.
• Notes: Adhesive roots can mark porous or painted surfaces; provide a dedicated support, avoid cold drafts, and note that latex sap may irritate skin.

Why Choose Climbing Fig?

• Quick Coverage: Rapid, self-clinging growth greens up supports fast.
• Fine Texture: Small leaves create a refined, uniform canopy.
• Design Flexibility: Easy to train for living walls, topiary, or trailing displays.
• Space Efficient: Vertical habit maximizes greenery in tight rooms.

Choose Climbing Fig for customizable, fast-covering greenery that thrives in bright, indirect light with a simple watering routine.