Rock fig

The rock fig grows on rocks and cliffs because its roots can crawl over the surface and into the tiniest cracks to search for water.

Rock fig
Rock fig - Ficus petiolaris


The roots of the rock fig have an amazing ability to grow over stones and rocks, searching for a place where they can penetrate the stony surface and find moisture in the soil below.

It is often grown as bonsai plant, i.e. a potted plant that is shaped so that it resembles a miniature tree. The rock fig is well suited to this, because already as a young plant it has a thick tree-like stem and also can withstand heavy pruning.


Fact box:

  • Greenhouse location: The Dessert House
  • Danish name: Klippe-figen
  • Latin name: Ficus petiolaris
  • Family: Mulberry family /  Moraceae
  • Natural habitat: Mexico

Learn more about other plants here.