Traits
Varieties We Bring In
Standard · Benghalensis Audrey
We received some Indian Laurel Fig on Jul 20, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
Last received Jul 20, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
Pet toxicity: Toxic to dogs and cats
Pet safety guideAbout Indian Laurel Fig
Indian Laurel Fig (Ficus microcarpa) is a large, fast-growing evergreen shade tree with glossy dark green leaves and a dense, wide-spreading canopy reaching 25–40 feet. NOTE: This species is listed as a Category I invasive plant by FLEPPC and is not recommended for new Florida landscapes — consider a native alternative such as Live Oak.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Non-flowering
- Flower Color
- Non-flowering
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended months: March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October.
Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Can be planted with extra attention to watering.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Grows in full sun to part sun. In NE Florida, full sun produces the densest canopy. Indian Laurel Fig is a large canopy tree — site carefully away from structures, pavement, and utilities given its invasive root system and large mature size.
Moderate water needs; drought-tolerant once established in NE Florida. Supplemental irrigation during establishment (first 1–2 years) is beneficial, then largely self-sufficient. Avoid planting near water features due to invasive root behavior.
Adaptable to most well-drained soils. In NE Florida, amend sandy soils with organic matter at planting. Established trees need minimal fertilization. Important: UF/IFAS and FLEPPC list this species as a Category I invasive in Florida — consider alternative shade trees.
Similar needs
Umbrella Tree
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Council Tree
Shares 3 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, and loam.
Fiddle Leaf Fig
Shares 3 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, and loam.
Christmas Cactus
Shares 3 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, and well-drained soil.
Ageratum
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Alyssum
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
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Common questions
Is Indian Laurel Fig a good plant for St. Augustine?
Indian Laurel Fig is a houseplant. Mature size: 25-40 feet × 25-40 feet. Light: Full Sun, Part Sun. Water needs: Moderate. Recorded hardiness zone: 9a.
What is the recorded pet toxicity for Indian Laurel Fig?
Toxic to dogs and cats
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.