Product Description
Ficus pumila 'Variegata'
Common name: Variegated creeping fig, Variegated climbing fig
Zone: 7 to 11.
Sun to partial shade.
Mature size: Vigorous-growing, clinging climber.
Juvenile leaves are small heart shaped with creamy white variegation; 1 inch long by about 3/4 inch wide and creates a mat of foliage about 1 inch high. After the vine has reach the apex of its support, 3 inch long by 2 inch wide, leathery, dark green with creamy white variegation adult foliage emerges on horizontal branches.
Ficus pumila 'Variegata', also known as the Variegated Creeping Fig, is a popular evergreen vine prized for its small, colorful leaves and ability to climb or trail. It is a versatile plant that can add texture and interest to both indoor and outdoor spaces. Here is a closer look at what makes it special:
Appearance:
- Foliage: The most striking feature of 'Variegata' is its small, heart-shaped leaves with creamy white margins. The leaves are typically less than an inch long and have a slightly puckered texture. The variegation adds a bright, cheerful touch to the foliage.
- Growth Habit: It is a vigorous vine that climbs using aerial rootlets, allowing it to attach to walls, trellises, or other surfaces. It can also be grown as a trailing plant in hanging baskets or containers.
Growing Conditions:
- Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some shade, but the variegation may be less pronounced. It can also be acclimated to full sun, especially in cooler climates.
- Soil: Prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in USDA zones 8-11, making it suitable for warmer climates. In colder regions, it can be grown as a houseplant or brought indoors during the winter.
Uses:
- Walls and Trellises: 'Variegata' is a popular choice for covering walls, fences, and trellises, adding a touch of greenery and texture.
- Groundcover: It can also be used as a groundcover in shady areas.
- Containers: It is a versatile container plant, suitable for hanging baskets, window boxes, or topiaries.
- Terrariums and Vivariums: Its small leaves and climbing habit make it a good choice for terrariums and vivariums.
Additional Benefits:
- Evergreen: It retains its foliage year-round, providing continuous color and interest.
- Fast-Growing: It is a relatively fast-growing vine, quickly filling in spaces.
- Air Purifier: Like other ficus plants, it can help to purify the air by removing toxins.
Things to Consider:
- Invasive Potential: In some areas, Creeping Fig (including the variegated form) can become invasive. It is important to monitor its growth and prune it regularly to prevent it from spreading uncontrollably.
- Pruning: 'Variegata' can be pruned to control its size and shape. It is best to prune it in spring or summer.
- Humidity: It prefers moderate to high humidity, so it may benefit from occasional misting, especially when grown indoors.
Overall, Ficus pumila 'Variegata' is a beautiful and versatile plant that can add a touch of elegance and texture to any space. Its small, colorful leaves and climbing habit make it a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor gardening.
Ten (10) plants in 4.5-inch containers per flat (or tray).
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
