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GENERAL
Origin
:
tropical
Vigour
:
fast growing
Humidity
:
semi-humid, very
humid
Propagation :
cuttings, aerial
layering
Maintenance :
moderate
CONDITIONS
Urban climate :
resistant
Dessication :
vulnerable
Stagnant water :
vulnerable
Irrigation
:
medium
Salinity/ppm :
high (5000 ppm)
Hardiness
:
-3°C
SHAPE
Type
:
tree
Height
:
10 m-30 m
Spread
:
10 m-18 m
Foliage
:
evergreen
FLOWER
Colour
:
pale green
Size
:
0.4 cm
Period
:
March - April
FRUIT
Type of fruit :
drupe(fleshy/
juicy)
Fruit size
:
1 cm - 2 cm
Toxicity
:
inedible, fruit
The Banyan is a large and fast-growing tree originating in northwest India in the foothills of
the Himalayas. As an epiphyte, it starts life when the seeds germinate in crevices between the
branches of the host tree. Often seen in parks in Arriyadh, it develops into a majestic tree, given
sufficient space. It will reach a height of up to 30 metres and as much as 18 metres in width with
a short, stout trunk with smooth, grey bark. In maturity, it typically produces aerial roots from
its outstretched heavy limbs, which hang downwards from the branches in a dense network and
ultimately help to support the main trunk. Rooting in new ground, the tree then takes on a new
lease of life. This development, while common in India, is not observed in Arriyadh. The large,
ovate and obtuse leaves are a glabrous dark green; newly sprouted leaves are a startling red. Ol-
der leaves fall regularly after the new ones have grown, so that all leaves are gradually replaced
throughout the year. Fruits are fig-like and red when ripe, and are eaten by bats. The roots run flat
below the surface and are particularly extensive. F. benghalensis prefers a deep fertile soil, but will
grow on sandy soils with regular irrigation in full sun. Trees have medium drought and salinity
tolerance, and are also quite hardy to frosts. Propagation is by softwood cuttings and air-layering
on branches. The Banyan tree makes an excellent specimen tree in parks and public squares. Leaf
litter is a maintenance item and good pruning is required to keep the tree in shape.
144
Ficus benghalensis,
Moraceae
Banyan Tree