Scientific name: Ficus religiosa
Synonym: Urostigma religiosum
Common names: “Bhodi tree” “Bo” “Sacred fig”
Family: MORACEAE
Plant Type: Evergreen tree, deciduous in native monsoon climates, can be an epiphyte
Conditions:
Zone: 10-12
Light: Full sun
Exposure: Sheltered from cold
Soil: Average or soil based potting mix in containers
Moisture: Evenly moist well drained
Aesthetic:
Plant Size: 60-100′ H & W, trunks can grow to 9′ diameter
Leaf and Stem shape: Ovate-rounded, glossy, dark green leaves with distinctive, extremely narrow, elongated tips
Flower: Globular figs appear solitary or in pairs, emerging green but ripening to purple
Pruning: Can be cut back to maintain size but should be done respectfully
Maintenance: Medium, regular watering, may require staking or support
Landscape use: Indoor, container, specimen tree, bonsai
Propagate: By seed, cuttings and layering
Pests & Disease: No serious insect or disease problems
Comments: Native to India, Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, reportedly sat under the Bodhi tree when he received enlightenment (bodhi), the oldest plant in the world of known planting date is the Ficus religiosa tree called Sri Maha Bodhi which was planted at the temple at Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, in 288 B. C.
