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Ficus pumila
Ficus pumila
Ficus pumila
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Creeping fig
F. pumila foliage
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Rosids
Order: Rosales
Family: Moraceae
Tribe: Ficeae
Genus: Ficus
Subgenus: F. subg. Synoecia
Species:
F. pumila
Binomial name
Ficus pumila
L. 1753 not Thunb. 1786
Synonyms[1]
List
  • Ficus hanceana Maxim.
  • Ficus longipedicellata H.Perrier
  • Ficus pumila var. lutchuensis Koidz.
  • Ficus repens var. lutchuensis Koidz.
  • Ficus scandens Lam.
  • Ficus stipulata Thunb. 1786
  • Ficus stipulata Lem. 1843
  • Ficus vestita Desf.
  • Plagiostigma pumila Zucc.
  • Plagiostigma stipulata Zucc.
  • Tenorea heterophylla Gasp.
  • Urostigma scandens (Lam.) Liebm.
  • Varinga repens Raf.

Ficus pumila, commonly known as the creeping fig or climbing fig, is a species of flowering plant in the mulberry family, native to East Asia (southern China, southern Japan, Vietnam)[2] and naturalised in parts of the southeastern and south-central United States.[3][4] It is also found in cultivation as a houseplant. The Latin specific epithet pumila means "dwarf",[5] and refers to the very small leaves of the plant.

Description

[edit]

Ficus pumila is a woody evergreen liana, growing to 2.5–12 m (8–39 ft) tall.[6] The juvenile foliage is much smaller and thinner than mature leaves produced as the plant ages. The leaves are oval, cordate, asymmetrical, with opposite veins. It is creeping or can behave like a liana and also climb trees, rocks, etc. up to 4 m in height or more. The aerial roots secrete a translucent latex that hardens on drying, allowing the stems to adhere to their support.[citation needed]

It is pollinated by the fig wasp Wiebesia pumilae (syn. Blastophaga pumilae), and is fed upon by larvae of the butterfly Marpesia petreus.[citation needed]

Cultivation

[edit]

As the common name, "creeping fig" indicates, the plant has a creeping/vining habit and is often used in gardens and landscapes where it covers the ground and climbs up trees and walls. It is hardy down to 1 °C (34 °F)[7] and does not tolerate frost. Therefore in temperate regions it is often seen as a houseplant. It is fast-growing and requires little in the way of care. It can be invasive when environmental conditions are favorable. Its secondary roots or tendrils can cause structural damage to certain buildings with fragile mortar or structures made of fragile materials.

It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[8]

Varieties and cultivars

[edit]
  • Ficus pumila var. awkeotsang — awkeotsang creeping fig
  • Ficus pumila var. quercifolia — oak leaf creeping fig
  • Ficus pumila 'Curly' — curly creeping fig; crinkled leaf form
  • Ficus pumila 'Variegata' and Ficus pumila 'Snowflake' — variegated creeping fig; variegated foliage
  • Ficus pumila 'Minima' – features smaller, heart-shaped leaves[9]

Cuisine

[edit]

The fruit of Ficus pumila var. awkeotsang is used in cuisine. In Taiwan, its fruit is turned inside out and dried. The seeds are scraped off and a gel is extracted from their surface with water and allowed to set and form a jelly known in Taiwan as aiyu jelly (or aiyuzi 愛玉子) and in Singapore as ice jelly (文頭雪).

Toxicity

[edit]

Like other plant species in the family Moraceae, contact with the milky sap of Ficus pumila can cause phytophotodermatitis,[10] a potentially serious skin inflammation. Although the plant is not poisonous per se, F. pumila is listed in the FDA Database of Poisonous Plants.[11]

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Ficus pumila

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Ficus pumila, commonly known as creeping fig or climbing fig, is a vigorous, fast-growing, in the mulberry family, . Native to East and , including central and southern , , Korea, and extending to Indo-China and , it is characterized by its woody stems, aerial rootlets that enable it to climb and adhere to surfaces like walls, trees, and rocks, and dimorphic foliage with juvenile leaves that are small (under 1 inch long), heart-shaped, and often bronze to green, transitioning to larger (2-4 inches), leathery, dark green leaves in the mature phase. This species exhibits two distinct growth stages: the juvenile form, which remains low-growing and spreads rapidly as a groundcover or climber up to 40 feet high, and the mature form, which produces non-showy, unisexual or monoecious flowers within fig-like syconia and pale green, pear-shaped, inedible fruits up to 3 inches long. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8-11, tolerating shade, , and a range of soils, but is sensitive to below 10-15°F, where it may suffer leaf scorch. In its native , F. pumila grows as a in forests and on rocky slopes, contributing to by providing cover and . Widely cultivated as an for its aesthetic appeal in covering walls, fences, trellises, and as a in hanging baskets or terrariums, Ficus pumila is valued for creating textured tapestries and dense mats, though its aggressive can damage structures upon removal due to adhesive rootlets. However, it has become invasive in non-native regions such as parts of the (e.g., , ), , and the , where it outcompetes local vegetation and is difficult to control. The plant's latex sap may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Taxonomy and etymology

Scientific classification

Ficus pumila is a species within the genus Ficus in the family Moraceae. Its full taxonomic hierarchy is as follows:
RankName
KingdomPlantae
PhylumTracheophyta
ClassMagnoliopsida
OrderRosales
Family
Genus L.
SpeciesF. pumila L.
Within the genus Ficus, F. pumila is placed in subgenus Synoecia (Miq.) C.C.Berg and section Rhizocladus Miq., a group characterized by root-climbing habits distinct from the tree-like species in subgenus Ficus, such as F. carica L., which belongs to section Ficus L. The species was first described by in his in 1753, based on specimens from . Historical reclassifications occurred in the , including placement under the genus Urostigma Gasp. as U. scandens (but not directly pumilum; verified synonyms include Ficus stipulata Thunb. and F. repens L.f. non L.). Phylogenetically, F. pumila is closely related to other climbing fig species within , such as F. thunbergii Blume and F. sarmentosa Buch.-Ham. ex Roxb., forming a monophyletic in subgenus Synoecia that originated in and emphasizes the evolution of the climbing habit in the genus.

Name origins

The scientific name Ficus pumila was first established by in his 1753 work , where he described the species based on specimens from . The genus name derives from the Latin word for "," reflecting its placement in the family alongside the common edible fig (Ficus carica), and traces back to ancient Mediterranean references to fig trees in classical texts. The specific epithet pumila comes from the Latin pumilus (or pumila), meaning "dwarf" or "low-growing," which alludes to the plant's characteristic creeping, vine-like habit that spreads close to the ground or substrate rather than forming a tall tree. In English-speaking regions, Ficus pumila is commonly known as creeping fig or climbing fig, emphasizing its adhesive climbing growth via ; it is also referred to as Chinese ivy or fig ivy in some horticultural contexts, particularly in , due to its ivy-like foliage and origin in . Regional variations include "Japanese creeping fig" in areas where the plant is widely cultivated or naturalized, such as parts of the , highlighting its prominence in despite its broader East Asian native range. In its native East Asian regions, cultural names reflect local linguistic traditions and uses; for example, in Chinese it is known as 薜荔 (bì lì), a term from classical texts describing its creeping nature and edible syconia, while in Japanese it is called オオイタビ (ōitabi), meaning "large cliff ," evoking its habitat on rocky cliffs and fig-like fruits. These vernacular names underscore the plant's long of recognition in traditional East Asian and , predating Linnaean .

Description

Vegetative morphology

Ficus pumila is an , woody that exhibits a distinctive climbing habit, capable of reaching lengths of 5 to 15 meters in its native . The stems are slender and flexible in the juvenile phase, producing dense clusters of adventitious along their length that secrete a sticky to adhere firmly to surfaces such as trunks, rocks, or walls. These enable the vine to form a self-clinging mat, spreading rapidly and creating a thick, dense coverage. As the plant matures, the stems transition to thicker, non-climbing forms that extend horizontally, supporting the overall sprawling structure. The bark is smooth and light brown, becoming slightly fissured with age on older stems. A key feature of F. pumila's vegetative morphology is the dimorphism in its leaves, which differ markedly between juvenile and adult phases. Juvenile leaves, found on climbing stems, are small, measuring 1-2 cm in length, ovate to heart-shaped (cordate) with an acute apex, glossy medium to dark , alternate, simple, and entire-margined; they are glabrous above and slightly pubescent below, with short petioles. These leaves are thin and paper-like, facilitating close adhesion to substrates. In contrast, adult leaves on fertile or horizontal stems are larger, 5-10 cm long, ovate-elliptic to oblong, thicker and leathery (coriaceous), with a glossy dark upper surface, pale reticulate underside, and bases that are rounded to subcordate; the apex is slightly acute to obtuse. This leaf dimorphism supports the plant's transition from vertical climbing to horizontal expansion. The of F. pumila is primarily adventitious and fibrous, originating from nodes on the stems to facilitate attachment and anchorage. These not only aid in mechanical support for but also contribute to rapid horizontal spread across surfaces, forming extensive networks. Once established, the fibrous nature of the enhances water uptake efficiency, conferring tolerance to conditions in suitable habitats. This morphology underscores the vine's adaptability as a self-clinging climber on various substrates.

Reproductive structures

Ficus pumila is functionally dioecious, with male plants bearing syconia that produce offspring and female plants bearing syconia that produce seeds. The syconia are pear-shaped structures, typically measuring 2.5-6 cm (1-2.5 inches) in length, densely hairy on the exterior, and developing on mature stems. They emerge green, maturing to purple when ripe. The true flowers are minute and aggregated on the inner wall of the syconium, remaining enclosed and invisible from the exterior; occurs internally through a narrow ostiole at the apex. Male syconia contain short-styled gall flowers that serve as brood sites for the obligate mutualist Wiebesia pumilae (family ), along with male flowers for production. Winged female wasps emerge from galled flowers within male syconia, carry , seek out receptive female-phase syconia on female plants for and oviposition, and die after completing the cycle, while wingless males mate inside and enlarge the ostiole for female escape. Female syconia contain long-styled flowers that develop into upon , producing numerous tiny , with approximately 5,000-6,000 viable per syconium. occurs primarily via gravity, though ripe syconia may also be consumed by birds or small mammals, facilitating limited zoochory. In addition to , F. pumila propagates vegetatively through adventitious rooting of stems or layering, contributing to its rapid spread in suitable habitats. Flowering and syconium development in F. pumila are polycarpic, occurring year-round in tropical and subtropical regions, though synchronized into two major annual crops during spring and summer, with a minor autumn peak in some populations. This supports continuous wasp populations and seed production where environmental conditions permit.

Distribution and

Native range

Ficus pumila is native to the temperate and subtropical regions of East and Southeast , encompassing central and southern , , Korea, , , , and . In , its distribution includes the River basin and extends across north-central, south-central, and southeastern provinces. The species is also recorded in from Honshu southward to the (including Nansei-shoto and Ogasawara-shoto), as well as in Korea and . Further south, it occurs in Indo-China, with confirmed presence in and extending to and . The altitudinal range of Ficus pumila in its native habitats spans from to mountainous areas. Historical records, including specimens collected since the late , confirm its long-established presence in these regions. For instance, early collections from and document its occurrence in natural settings dating back to the period following its formal description by in 1753.

Introduced distributions

Ficus pumila has been widely introduced outside its native East Asian range as an ornamental vine, particularly for covering walls, trellises, and structures in warm climates. It was first brought to around 1771, though it gained popularity in the , and to the during the same period for purposes. In , it established in the , including and , as well as , where it has been cultivated since the 1800s. Introductions to occurred in the late , while in and , it arrived similarly in the 1800s for garden applications. In , it is commonly grown in Mediterranean greenhouses and coastal areas like , , since 1914. The species has become invasive in several subtropical and tropical regions, where its rapid vegetative growth allows it to smother native vegetation, climb trees, and alter landscapes by forming dense mats that block light and compete for resources. In , it is classified as a high invasion risk species, capable of invading disturbed areas and natural communities, leading to recommendations against its use in landscapes near wild areas. Similarly, in , it spreads aggressively from plantings into lowland moist forests and coastal sites, potentially modifying habitats despite limited seed production due to the absence of its specific wasp. In parts of , such as , it is regarded as an environmental weed that threatens through overgrowth on native plants. In , it is considered potentially invasive, with risks heightened if its is introduced. Spread primarily occurs through human-mediated ornamental plantings and accidental escape of vegetative fragments, such as stem cuttings or rooted branches carried by water, wind, or birds, enabling establishment in new sites without reliance on seeds in regions lacking the . In areas where viable seeds form, dispersal by birds further aids invasion. efforts focus on prevention, including avoiding plantings near natural areas, and control through mechanical removal by cutting and pulling vines, followed by application on regrowth in invasive hotspots like and ; regular trimming is essential for cultivated specimens to limit escape. Local authorities, such as the of Florida's IFAS, emphasize early detection and integrated removal to mitigate impacts on native ecosystems.

Ecology

Habitat preferences

Ficus pumila thrives in shaded, moist environments within its native range, commonly inhabiting forest understories, rocky cliffs, and stream banks where it can utilize vertical surfaces for climbing. It tolerates partial or dappled conditions but generally avoids prolonged full exposure, which can scorch its foliage, preferring semi-shade to maintain optimal growth. The species favors well-drained, humus-rich s that are slightly acidic with a range of 6 to 7, though it demonstrates high tolerance for poorer conditions once established through its rooting system. In terms of , Ficus pumila is suited to USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11, enduring brief frosts but sustaining damage at temperatures below -10°C. It flourishes in humid conditions typical of subtropical and tropical regions, with relative humidity levels of 60-80% supporting its vigorous habit. Key adaptations enable its success in these microhabitats, including the production of that anchor it firmly to rocks, trunks, and other vertical substrates without need for support. In humid tropical settings, it exhibits rapid growth, potentially extending approximately 30 cm per year, allowing it to quickly colonize available surfaces.

Biological interactions

Ficus pumila exhibits an obligate mutualistic relationship with the fig wasp Wiebesia pumilae for , where female wasps enter the syconia to deposit eggs and pollinate the flowers using carried from other figs. The larvae of W. pumilae develop by consuming some of the fig's flowers or developing seeds, while the remaining seeds mature, ensuring the plant's reproduction; this specific interaction has been documented in studies of and adaptive responses between the fig varieties and their pollinators. This mutualism is highly specialized, with the wasps relying exclusively on F. pumila for breeding, and the plant depending on the wasps for effective across its dioecious populations. Seed dispersal in F. pumila primarily occurs through frugivorous animals, including birds and mammals like bats, which consume the ripe syconia and deposit seeds via feces while moving through the habitat. These seeds, small and numerous within the fleshy figs, are viable upon on bark as hemi-epiphytes or directly in soil, facilitating the vine's spread in forested environments; observations confirm that birds and bats enhance by transporting seeds over distances that exceed local movement. In introduced ranges, F. pumila engages in competitive interactions with native vegetation, aggressively climbing and smothering host trees by forming dense mats that block light and add structural weight, often leading to branch breakage or canopy collapse. This invasive behavior has been noted in subtropical regions like , where the vine outcompetes slower-growing natives by rapid vegetative expansion via adventitious roots, altering local forest structure without benefiting the host plants. Within its native East Asian ecosystems, F. pumila plays a supportive role by providing dense cover for small animals, including and birds, through its climbing habit on trees and rocks, which creates sheltered microhabitats in layers. Additionally, as a , it colonizes disturbed forest edges and secondary growth areas, stabilizing soil and facilitating succession by offering initial structural support for later-arriving .

Cultivation

Growing requirements

Ficus pumila thrives in partial shade to full sun when grown outdoors, though it performs best in dappled sunlight or filtered light to prevent scorch from intense midday exposure. Indoors, placement near an east- or south-facing window providing bright indirect light is ideal, as direct afternoon sun can damage the foliage. This light preference aligns with its natural tolerance for shaded, humid environments in native habitats. The plant requires porous, well-drained rich in to support its growth and prevent . For indoor cultivation, a soil-based potting mix amended with ensures adequate drainage while retaining . Watering should be moderate, with the top inch of allowed to dry out between sessions to mimic its once established, though consistent is essential during active growth. Optimal temperatures range from 15 to 30°C (59 to 86°F), with indoor conditions ideally maintained between 18 and 24°C (65 to 75°F) and protection from drafts or sudden chills. It is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11 but must be shielded from , as temperatures below -12°C (10°F) can cause damage or dieback. High humidity levels above 50% promote healthy growth, particularly indoors where misting, pebble trays, or humidifiers can supplement dry air. Regular is necessary to control its vigorous spreading habit and encourage denser, bushier foliage, with cuts made in spring or summer using clean tools to minimize sap flow. Fertilization should be sparing, applying a balanced NPK at half strength every other week during the (spring through summer) to avoid excessive vegetative growth.

Propagation techniques

Ficus pumila is primarily propagated vegetatively due to its ease and reliability, with stem cuttings being the most common and successful method. Semi-hardwood cuttings, typically 10-15 cm in length, are taken from current season's growth in spring or early summer, with the lower leaves removed to expose the stem. These cuttings are optionally dipped in a rooting , then inserted into a well-draining medium. Maintained under high (achieved via misting or a enclosure) and indirect , they root within several weeks. Air layering provides another effective vegetative technique, particularly for propagating larger sections from established vines. A stem is girdled or wounded, wrapped with moist sphagnum moss and secured with plastic to retain humidity, allowing to develop while still attached to the parent plant; this method is especially useful for commercial production of mature specimens. Once form, the layered section is severed and potted. Seed is feasible but less commonly practiced because viable seeds require by the specific Wiebesia pumilae, which is often absent outside native ranges. Fresh syconia are harvested, seeds extracted, surface-sown on a sterile, moist medium such as peat-perlite, and kept at 25°C with high ; occurs slowly, after which seedlings are pricked out and grown under similar conditions to cuttings. Division involves separating rooted offsets or suckers from the base of mature during repotting, using sterile tools to minimize risk. Treated sections are optionally dipped in rooting and planted directly into a suitable medium, where they establish quickly under humid, warm conditions; this method leverages the plant's natural adventitious rooting tendency for high success.

Uses

Ornamental applications

Ficus pumila, commonly known as creeping fig, is extensively employed in ornamental for covering walls and fences due to its vigorous climbing habit and adhesive aerial rootlets that attach to , wood, or other vertical surfaces. This creates lush, green facades that soften harsh architectural features, such as plain or cinder block walls, with its small, overlapping juvenile leaves forming a dense . The vine can ascend up to 40 feet in height, though growth is typically constrained by the supporting structure, and it thrives in partial shade, requiring initial planting at the base of the wall with consistent moisture to establish adhesion. In or forms, it is trained along wire frames, moss-filled shapes, or wooden trellises to produce sculpted designs or flat, decorative patterns against walls. As a ground cover, Ficus pumila excels in shaded garden beds, where it spreads rapidly to form a low, evergreen mat less than 2 inches high, effectively suppressing weeds and providing on slopes or under trees. Indoors, it serves as an attractive hanging basket plant or is trained upward on moss poles or shelves, enhancing interiorscapes with its trailing stems and heart-shaped foliage, particularly in cultivars like 'Minima' with tiny leaves. For , dwarf forms are popular in pots, terrariums, or raised planters, allowing for miniature landscapes that mimic natural creeping habits while maintaining the plant's compact size through pruning. Design considerations for Ficus pumila include its fast juvenile growth rate of up to 1 foot per year, enabling quick coverage but necessitating regular to prevent overgrowth or transition to larger-leaved mature forms. The adhesive rootlets, which secrete a sticky , make removal challenging, often damaging underlying surfaces like wood, , or paint, and requiring careful surface preparation or replacement after detachment. These traits, combined with its preference for moist, well-drained soil high in , position it as a versatile yet demanding ornamental choice best suited to controlled environments where maintenance can be managed.

Culinary applications

Ficus pumila has limited but notable culinary applications in East Asian traditions, primarily centered on its rather than vegetative parts. The pear-shaped syconia of the species, especially the variety F. pumila var. awkeotsang, are commercially cultivated in , , and to produce , a translucent, gelatinous substance used in desserts, drinks, and preparations. The fruit is harvested when nearly ripe, turned inside out to dry, and then rubbed or scraped to extract the mucilaginous pulp, which forms a natural without additional gelling agents. This jelly is valued for its cooling properties and is often flavored with , , or fruits to create refreshing beverages or confections, reflecting its role in traditional East Asian diets. The gel is sometimes used in soups or as a thickener in regional dishes. Nutritionally, the fruit is low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C, contributing to immune support and benefits, though it is typically consumed in small quantities as a specialty item. Historical records indicate cultivation for fruits in regions like and , potentially serving as a supplementary source during periods of , though modern usage is constrained by the availability of commercial alternatives and the plant's primary ornamental role. In East Asian herbal traditions, parts of the plant are used medicinally, including for digestive support through compounds like . Precautions are advised, as unprocessed parts may cause mild from the plant's .

Varieties and cultivars

Natural varieties

Ficus pumila exhibits natural variation primarily at the varietal level, with distinctions based on morphological traits such as leaf size and characteristics, as well as genetic markers and geographic distribution; no are recognized within the species. The varieties are adapted to specific East Asian regions, reflecting evolutionary divergence estimated at approximately 550,000 years ago during the Middle Pleistocene, supported by differences in wasps and gene duplications. The nominate variety, F. pumila var. pumila, represents the standard form with small, oval to heart-shaped juvenile leaves typically measuring 1–3 cm in length, maturing to slightly larger sizes, and dark green syconia that blend with foliage for camouflage. This variety is widespread across central and southern China, extending to temperate East Asia and Indo-China, where it thrives in lowland subtropical forests. Ficus pumila var. awkeotsang, known as the jelly fig, is characterized by larger leaves, oblong to ovate and 7–12 cm long by 3–5 cm wide, with syconia that differ morphologically from the nominate variety in size and biochemical composition, including higher content suitable for gel formation. Native to mid-elevation regions in and southeastern ( and provinces), this variety is utilized in traditional Taiwanese medicine for its hypoglycemic and anti-inflammatory properties, derived from bioactive compounds in its syconia. Ficus pumila var. lutchuensis is occasionally recognized as a distinct variety from the (), featuring more robust stems, though its taxonomic status remains uncertain due to limited material and potential synonymy with var. pumila. Genetic data indicate co-diversification between the varieties and their specific wasps, with partial host specificity and limited contributing to regional adaptations.

Selected cultivars

Ficus pumila has been selectively bred to produce several cultivars prized for their distinctive foliage and growth habits, enhancing their suitability for ornamental , indoor displays, and specialized applications. The 'Minima' cultivar exhibits a compact form with tiny, slender leaves, rendering it particularly well-suited for confined environments such as terrariums, , and hanging baskets. In contrast, 'Quercifolia' features small, lobed leaves resembling miniature foliage and demonstrates a notably slower growth rate compared to the species, which facilitates its use in shaping and controlled container plantings. 'Variegata', often referred to as 'Sunny Fig' or 'Snowflake' in some contexts, produces heart-shaped leaves with prominent cream or white margins that extend beyond the typical green edges, resulting in a less vigorous overall habit ideal for accentuating vertical features or interiorscapes; however, this cultivar is susceptible to reversion, where all-green shoots arise due to unstable variegation, necessitating regular removal to maintain its appearance. These cultivars can be propagated using techniques similar to the species, such as stem cuttings, to preserve their unique traits.

Toxicity

Effects on humans

The milky sap of Ficus pumila contains proteolytic enzymes, including ficin, which can irritate human skin upon contact, leading to dermatitis characterized by redness, itching, and blistering. Additionally, the sap includes furocoumarins such as psoralens, which cause phytophotodermatitis—a phototoxic reaction triggered by subsequent exposure to ultraviolet light—resulting in erythema, edema, vesicles, and potential hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation. Documented cases among horticulturists and gardeners highlight these effects, often from pruning or handling the plant without protection; wearing gloves is advised to prevent exposure. Ingestion of unprocessed leaves or fruits of Ficus pumila may result in mild gastrointestinal upset, including , , and abdominal discomfort, particularly in children or sensitive individuals; raw fruits may cause such effects, but ripe syconia are generally considered safe for consumption in small amounts when properly prepared, such as by processing into jelly, though excessive intake should be avoided. Allergic reactions to Ficus pumila are rare but can occur in sensitized individuals, such as horticulturists, manifesting as from sap. For skin contact, immediate washing with soap and water is recommended, followed by application of topical corticosteroids like for symptomatic relief; symptoms typically resolve within 6–7 days, though pigmentation changes may persist for weeks to months. In cases of ingestion causing severe symptoms, medical advice should be sought promptly, though no fatalities from Ficus pumila exposure have been reported.

Effects on animals

Ficus pumila, commonly known as creeping fig, contains a milky with proteolytic enzymes such as ficin, which can cause mild in animals upon or contact. In dogs and cats, consumption of leaves, stems, or sap typically leads to irritation of the oral cavity and , resulting in symptoms including excessive , , , and decreased . These effects are generally not life-threatening but may cause significant discomfort, particularly if larger quantities are ingested. Dermal exposure to the sap can provoke skin irritation, redness, or blistering in pets, especially in sensitive areas like the paws or mouth. Veterinary intervention often involves inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal to bind toxins, and providing supportive care such as fluids to manage dehydration from gastrointestinal upset. While specific data on Ficus pumila is limited, its toxicity profile aligns with other Ficus species, which are classified as mildly toxic to dogs, cats, and horses by authoritative sources. The plant's sap may irritate wildlife mammals that encounter it, though documented cases are rare.

References

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  40. https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/database/documents/pdf/shrub_fact_sheets/ficpuma.pdf
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  44. https://jcra.ncsu.edu/horticulture/plant-profiles/details.php?ID=79
  45. https://www.wildflower.org/expert/show.php?id=11256
  46. https://www.bbg.org/article/the_genus_ficus
  47. https://specialtyproduce.com/produce/Taiwanese_Jelly_Figs_15650.php
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  59. https://www.rhs.org.uk/problems/reversion
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  61. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36071690/
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  64. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7813380/
  65. https://ccmedia.fdacs.gov/content/download/12627/file/poisonplants.pdf
  66. https://www.healthyhouseplants.com/indoor-houseplants/creeping-fig-plant-care-guide-ficus-pumila/
  67. https://www.eattheweeds.com/climbing-fig-creeping-fig/
  68. https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/ficus/
  69. https://wagwalking.com/condition/ficus-poisoning
  70. https://wagwalking.com/cat/condition/fig-poisoning
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