Ficus macrophylla

One of more than 800 different species of trees, shrubs and vines described as figs. Moreton Bay Fig is found endemically within Australia from Jervis Bay (NSW) to Cape York Peninsula (QLD), typically in high rainfall areas on sandy soils

Ficus macrophylla is a very large spreading tree featuring bright green glossy leaves, large buttresses extending down to wide spreading flanged roots when mature.

One of the more dominant trees within many Australian cities parks and avenues, planted extensively in the mid to late 1800’s. A massively broad canopied tree useful for dense shade and as a strong landscape form. The fruit can be messy and an attractor of the Grey Flying Fox (Pteropus poliocephalus).

We are seeing resurgence in its use most notably the Geelong Road entrance and major streets as well as plantings within Melbourne City Councils parklands. It has been seen to suffer in extended drought periods in Melbourne, even when mature and established.

Excellent specimens can be seen in the Adelaide Botanic Gardens (1866 planting); Centennial Park Sydney; and the Exhibition Gardens, Carlton Vic.

Typical mature height:

30-40m

Useful in:

broad streetscapes, parks

Sites for best growth:

moisture retentive but well-drained soils; low frost

Reference:

Spencer, R 1997 Horticultural flora of south-eastern Australia, University of New South Wales Press Vol. 2, p. 124.