Gardening, Kuwait

Sacred Fig

Botanical Name:

Ficus religiosa

Common Name:

Sacred bo tree, Bo tree, Bodhi tree, Peepal tree, فايكس لسان العصفور

Genus:

Fig trees (Ficus)

Will it survive Kuwait’s summer or is it just seasonal?

Will survive Kuwait’s summer

Description:

It gets its English name as it is sacred in Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. While in Arabic its name (Translated to ficus birds tongue) is derived from the leaves tips that looks like a birds tongue

Toxicity:

The sap of the tree may cause skin reaction if handled, so wash your hands thoroughly if the sap gets in contact with your skin

Tips for Planting and Watering Needs:

Plant in a partial sun location during the mid to late September when the highest temperature reaches 35 °C. Water once daily during early winter. During the colder days of winter, you could water once every two to three days. Make sure not to water when there is rain. During early summer water once a day, while during the hotter days of summer water twice daily in the early morning, preferably before sun rise, and after sun set. Water once the top 3 cm of the soil is dried out.

Characteristics

Plant Type: Tree

Lifespan: Perennial

Bloom Time: All Year Round

Plant Height: 15 m to 25 m

Spread: 10 m

Difficulty Rating: Easy

Sunlight: Partial sun

Care Guide

Fertilization: Twice in early October and late February

Pruning: Trim diseased and dead leaves in March

Planting Time: September to January (the closer to September the better)