The banyan tree goes by many names; Bengal fig, East Indian fig, Indian fig, or Ficus benghalensis. It is a member of the Moraceae, or mulberry, family of plants. It is an evergreen tree that is drought tolerant and makes a large statement in the landscape. According to Floridata, it “is native to India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. It is often planted around temples and is considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists.”
Banyan Tree Description
Growing up to 100 feet tall with massive limbs and a spread of several acres, the banyan tree is quite a sight. It has leathery leaves. Foliage starts bronze and then turns glossy green, with remote hairs. They have very deeply marked veins. Fruits are scarlet red figs that are said not to be very tasty. The branches will take root when they hit the ground, making for a large area of coverage. The fig is a hollow fruit with numerous fleshy flowers inside. These types of figs are pollinated by a certain wasp species that can get through the fig by a small opening. It is through that opening that the wasp can pollinate the flowers inside.
Ficus Benghalensis Growing Guide
Grow in partial shade with a well-drained moderately moist soil. However, it is drought tolerant. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones of 10 through 12. Propagate by eye cuttings or by tip cuttings.
Warnings
All fig trees, even the stately banyan tree, can be an irritant to some sensitive individuals. The foliage and the milky sap can irritate the skin and the eyes. The majority of people do not have this sensitivity, but if you are one that has fig sensitivity, this tree is not for you.
Interesting Facts
There is a banyan tree in Poona, India that has a perimeter of a half-mile. It is sad that it can shelter up to 200 people with its size. In that area of the world, the leaves are edible and can often be used as plates. It is a sacred tree to the Hindus and Buddhists, believed to be a relative to the Bodhi tree that the Buddha achieve enlightenment sitting under.
Banyan trees in the landscape can really make a dramatic statement. They have different cultivars for those looking for different leaves or specifics. If you have the space for it, and live in the areas that are able to grow it effectively, it would definitely be a show-stopper.
Source: Floridata
http://www.floridata.com/ref/f/ficu_ben.cfm
Tina Samuels - Tina Samuels specializes in health, animal, and gardening articles. She authored "A Georgia Native Plant Guide".
