Ficus elegans

NAME:Ficus elegans

FAMILY: Moraceae

COMMON NAMES: Elegant Fig, Red-stem Fig

LOCAL NAMES: N/A (as local names vary depending on the region)

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Ficus elegans is a medium-sized evergreen tree with a dense, rounded crown. It typically reaches a height of 10 to 15 meters (33 to 49 feet) and has a trunk diameter of about 30 centimeters (12 inches). The leaves are glossy, leathery, and elliptical in shape, measuring around 8 to 12 centimeters (3 to 5 inches) in length. They have a dark green color on the upper surface and a lighter green shade underneath. The young branches of Ficus elegans are reddish-brown, providing an attractive contrast to the foliage.

USEFUL PART(s): The leaves, fruits, and latex sap of Ficus elegans are commonly used.

GENERAL USES:

  1. Medicinal Purposes: In traditional medicine, various parts of Ficus elegans are used to treat ailments such as digestive issues, skin problems, and respiratory conditions. The leaves are often prepared as a decoction or infusion for their medicinal properties.

  2. Edible Fruits: The fig fruits produced by Ficus elegans are edible and are enjoyed by both humans and wildlife. They have a sweet and juicy flavor, making them a popular choice for fresh consumption or used in jams, jellies, and desserts.

  3. Ornamental Purposes: Due to its attractive foliage and compact size, Ficus elegans is cultivated as an ornamental tree in gardens, parks, and landscapes.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Ficus elegans is native to tropical regions of Asia, including countries like India, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and southern China. It is also cultivated in other parts of the world with suitable climates.

WHY IS IT GREEN? Like most plants, Ficus elegans is green due to the presence of chlorophyll in its leaves. Chlorophyll is the pigment responsible for capturing sunlight during photosynthesis, which is the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy, utilizing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. The green color is a result of chlorophyll's ability to absorb light in the red and blue wavelengths while reflecting the green light.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Ficus elegans has a positive environmental impact. As an evergreen tree, it contributes to oxygen production and carbon dioxide absorption, helping to mitigate climate change. Additionally, its dense foliage provides shade and habitat for various birds, insects, and other wildlife. The fig fruits produced by Ficus elegans serve as a food source for animals, promoting biodiversity.

FUN FACT: Ficus elegans is a host plant for the caterpillars of certain butterfly species, such as the Common Crow butterfly (Euploea core). These butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves of Ficus elegans, and the emerging caterpillars feed on the foliage before undergoing metamorphosis.

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