Ficus septica 棱果榕
Shrubs Dioecious雌雄異株
Name of the Fig Species
- Scientific Name: Ficus septica
General Description
- Growth Form: Small tree or shrub (3 - 10m tall) with pale bark and large, oval
leaves
- Sex: Dioecious - Male and female flowers grow on separate trees
The Fig Fruit and Fig Wasp
- Fruit: Large (2 - 3 cm), greenish-yellow figs with white spots - Pollinator: Specific fig wasps (Ceratosolen spp.) - Animals that eat figs: Eaten by some birds and bats
How It Grows and Attaches
- Can grow as either a multi-stemmed shrub or single-trunked tree
- Roots: Forms aerial roots when climbing (unlike true stranglers)
- Bark: Pale gray with distinctive lenticels (breathing pores)
Typical Habitat in Borneo
- Where: Common in lowland forests, roadsides, and disturbed areas - Adaptability: Thrives in both shady forests and open areas
Ecological Role in Borneo Rainforest
- Pioneer Species: Quickly colonizes cleared areas
- Limited Food Source: Few animals can eat its toxic figs
- Nesting Sites: Birds use its dense foliage.
- Threats: Not endangered - actually benefits from disturbance
- Medicinal Use: Used in traditional remedies
- One of the first plants to regrow after typhoons
Unique Features or Adaptations
- Leaf Size: Very large (up to 30cm long) - Fast Growth: Can grow 2m per year in good conditions
Visual Summary
| Feature | Ficus septica |
F. variegata (Similar Species) |
|---|---|---|
| Fruit Size | Large (2 - 3 cm) | Smaller (1 - 2 cm) |
| Toxicity | High | Low |
| Growth Speed | Very fast | Moderate |