The mistletoe fig is named for its white berries which bear a close resemblance to those of the mistletoe plant, which is not a relative. This evergreen shrub is native to southeast Asia but is commonly grown as an evergreen garden plant or indoor houseplant in cooler climates. Male and female plants are easily differentiated by the shape of their leaves, large and round in the female plant and small and long in the male.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Ficus deltoidea, commonly known as mistletoe fig (mas cotek in Malaysian, tabat barito in Indonesia, or สาลิกาลิ้นทอง in Thai) is a species of flowering plant in the family Moraceae, native to Southeast Asia, and widely naturalized in other parts of the world.
F. deltoidea is an evergreen shrub or small tree, growing up to about 2 m tall, with thick leaves that are deltoid in shape, rounded at the apex and tapering at the base. The upper surface of the plants’ leaves are dark, shining green, while the lower surface is golden yellow with black spots. Male and female plants are physically distinctive, with the leaves of female plants being big and round, while the leaves of male plants are small, round and long. F. deltoidea can grow on the land (terrestrial plant), on the stone (Lithophyte) or attach to other plants as epiphyte. The plant grows wild in eastern peninsular Malaysia (Kelantan, Terengganu), Sumatra, Java, Borneo (Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei and Kalimantan), Celebes, Palawan and in Mindanao and is used by the traditional medical practitioners in these regions.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Mistletoe fig thrives best in full sun conditions, where it can bask in the sun’s rays for most of the day. This exposure maximizes its growth and fosters a healthy development.
Nonetheless, mistletoe fig demonstrates a commendable tolerance for partial sun, managing to adapt when it receives less intense light. However, shifts away from its ideal lighting may lead to subdued growth and potential changes in leaf coloration and thickness as adaptive responses. When cultivating mistletoe fig outdoors, it should be placed where it can enjoy ample sunlight. For indoor plants, situating mistletoe fig near a window that allows generous light exposure will be beneficial. These flexible lighting requirements make mistletoe fig a versatile choice for gardeners and plant enthusiasts.
Temperature
Mistletoe fig prefers a warm, humid environment due to its lack of cold resistance. It grows best between 20 to 30 ℃ and suffers frost damage lower than 16 ℃. It likes humid environments, and long-term water shortage leads to slow growth. Soil should be kept slightly moist without water accumulation.
Watering
Originating from the humid understory of tropical rainforests, mistletoe fig has adapted to thrive in environments with consistent moisture. This species is characterized by its moderate drought tolerance and a preference for stable humidity levels. In cultivation, mistletoe fig should be watered every week to maintain its lush foliage. Given its indoor cultivation prevalence, mistletoe fig benefits greatly from regular misting to replicate the high humidity of its native habitat, ensuring vibrant growth throughout its active growing season.
Soil
Mistletoe fig thrives in well-drained soil, essential to prevent root rot. A suitable mix is equal parts of potting mix and perlite or coarse sand, ensuring good aeration. If perlite isn’t available, pumice is an excellent substitute. Regular fertilization with a balanced, all-purpose liquid fertilizer will support growth. These components create an environment that mimics mistletoe fig’s natural habitat, reducing the risk of waterlogging.
Fertilizing
Fertilize mistletoe fig monthly with diluted high-nitrogen fertilizer during growing seasons—spring and summer—for vigor and lush foliage. Benefits include healthy growth and potential enhancement of mistletoe fig’s modest flowers. Apply quarter-strength, balancing frequency with growth stage; less in fall, minimal in winter. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent root burn. For safe use, follow the product label and wash hands post-application.
Planting Instructions
If your potted mistletoe fig outgrows your home, transplant it to the garden. Seedlings bought in a garden center can also be planted directly in the garden; the best time for transplanting is late spring. If the garden soil is not fertile enough, you can add some organic fertilizer to the planting hole.
When transplanted to the garden, roots should be level with the ground and not buried too deeply. After transplanting, water thoroughly and slowly to prevent water from dispersing the soil. Water new plants twice a week to keep the soil moist.
Pruning
Without timely pruning, the main branches of mistletoe fig tend to grow quickly, but axillary buds cannot sprout side branches due to long-term restrained state, which greatly reduces the ornamental value since the plant has only one tall main stem. Therefore it is necessary to pinch it in time, that is, to cut off the terminal buds of mistletoe fig when the plant grows to about 60 cm in height.
After that, the axillary buds will sprout quickly, and 3-4 side branches in different directions can be retained and cultivated as the lateral main branches of the plant while other excessive axillary buds should be cut off. When the plant grows to 80 cm in height after 1-2 years, it is necessary to pinch it again and cut off the small buds on the top of all branches, with the length of the side branches not exceeding 60 cm. 3-4 small branches can also be retained on each side branch of the plant, and the shape of the plant will become round and look better when they grow up.
As the tree grows many branches, air ventilation and light transmission become poor, so pruning is important. Regular pruning also produces more new leaves. When cut, the branches of mistletoe fig leak milky sap, which eventually hardens and seals the wounds, so wear garden gloves when pruning.
Propagation
Mistletoe fig thrives when propagated through cuttings. To encourage growth, select a healthy, non-flowering stem and make a clean cut below a node. Use rooting hormone to enhance root development and plant the cutting in well-draining soil. Maintain consistent moisture and protect it from direct sunlight until signs of growth are evident. This propagation approach allows for a high success rate and maintains the desirable characteristics of mistletoe fig.
Transplanting
The best time to transplant mistletoe fig is between late summer and early fall (S4-S5), as the moderate temperatures promote root establishment. Mistletoe fig requires a sunny location after transplant for optimal growth. Remember, treat it gently, as the roots are sensitive.
Repotting
Repot mistletoe fig, a compact bush, every 2-3 years to encourage growth. Optimal repotting occurs in spring when its growth cycle resumes. Choose a container one size larger to promote root expansion. Post-repotting, place mistletoe fig in bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture without overwatering to ensure a smooth transition to its new pot.
III. Uses and Benefits
- Ornamental uses
Ficus deltoidea is used as an ornamental plant, requiring the protection of glass during winter months, in zones where the temperature falls below 10 °C (50 °F). It requires a sunny, sheltered, south- or east-facing position. In the UK it is a recipient of the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
- Medicinal uses
The plant is used in traditional medicine in eastern Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, where its leaves, fruits, stems and roots are believed to have healing properties. Among the traditional uses attributed to this plant include menstrual cycle regulation; the treatment of post-partum depression, lung diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, and skin problems; as well as an aphrodisiac for both men and women.
- Other uses
F. deltoidea has been commercialized in the region of its origin, where it is used as an ingredient in herbal drinks, coffee drinks, supplements, and massage oils.
