Ficus benghalensis, commonly known as banyan, is an evergreen perennial tree that belongs to the fig family, Moraceae. Ficus benghalensis is native to India where they are known to be the largest canopy covering trees in the world. F. benghalensis grows up to 98 feet tall with large smooth gray trunks that send down aerial roots and horizontal shoots at the base. The leaves of Ficus benghalensis are glossy, smooth-edged, and are typically oval or elliptical in shape with a dark green color. They are arranged alternately on the branches and are typically 5 to 10 inches long and 3 to 6 inches wide. F. benghalensis blooms throughout the year, but the peak blooming season is usually in the late spring to early summer. The tree produces small inconspicuous flowers that are located inside the fruit-like structure called a syconium. The syconium is a hollow receptacle that contains many small flowers that are pollinated by tiny wasps. After pollination, the syconium will develop into a small, edible fruit. F. benghalensis is an epiphyte that requires another plant or structure to grow on to initially establish itself. This species grows best in well draining soils that are slightly acidic, sitting in full sun to partial shade. It is a shallow-rooted tree that requires regular watering to establish itself. Once established, the banyan tree is relatively drought-tolerant, but it will still benefit from regular irrigation. Ficus benghalensis is known to be sensitive to cold temperatures, therefore it is best grown in areas with mild winters or protected from frost. This species is grown as an ornamental plant for its large canopy coverage. USDA plant hardiness zone 10 or higher.
Ficus benghalensis seeds require a 24 hour hot/warm water soak before being sown. Cloning boxes, ziplock bags, and other containers that retain humidity are ideal to store sown pots. Use a well-draining sterilized soil mix. Next, sow the seeds 1⁄4 to ½ inch deep and lightly cover them with potting mixture. Germinating pots should be kept indoors, out of extreme light and heat. Ideal germination temperatures range from 75°F to 85°F. Germination typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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