Annual – Clown Fig

Clown Fig 

Botanical name: ficus aspera 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: can reach over 30 ft in height and in width in tropical or indoor environments

Hardy zone: zones 10-12

Foliage color: green, white, variegated 

Flower color: green, pink/purple, yellow

Bloom time: year-round 

Growth rate: can grow at least 1 ft per year in tropical or indoor environments 

Pruning instructions: prune during dormancy to maintain desired shape and size

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings during the fall and winter months 

Landscape use: shade garden, container plant, porch accent 

Special features: produces non-edible ornamental fruit after flowering, shade tolerant, considered a tender perennial in zone 8 climates 

Light needs: 3-5 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the soil to mostly dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow-release all purpose plant food at the time of planting 

Best time to plant: spring or fall 

Best type of soil: loam, clay 

Companion plants: ivy, snake plant, lavender, ivy

Toxicity level: mildly toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no