Petiolate fig, Strangler fig, Rock fig, Baja California rock fig, Brandegee wild fig, and Palmer wild fig are all the common names of the tropical tree, Ficus petiolaris. Native to the arid regions of Mexico, the winter-dormant strangler fig tree grows up to 10-20 feet high, sometimes even 75 ft. tall. Ficus petiolaris bonsai grows to about 2 feet in height. The foliage of rock fig bonsai consists of a yellow-greenish trunk, heart-shaped bright green leaves with pink veins on the upper side, and tufts of white hair on the back. Having a slow growth rate, this tree grows happily with moderate sun and partial shade. The Ficus petiolaris rock fig belongs to the Moraceae family. This strangler fig species bears green flowers with red spots, but flowering is a rare sight under cultivation.

Growth Rate
Ficus rock fig is naturally a slow-growing succulent. Interestingly, Ficus petiolaris indoors might grow fast but only till it fills the container beyond which it stops growing.

Flowering
Ficus petiolaris houseplants barely flower. These trees in nature can bloom any time of the year and produce green flowers with red spots.

Watering and Feeding
Strangler figs need adequate water in the hot months and sparingly in the cold months. An important Ficus petiolaris care tip is to never let the soil dry completely between waterings, especially in summer.

Soil
Use well-drained soil or potting mix for your rock fig trees or bonsai.

Hardiness
The fig strangler tree cannot tolerate frost. It is best for growth in hardiness zone 10.

Light
Strangler fig plants prefer to be placed in full sun to moderate shade.

Propagation
Propagation for this species is best done by Ficus petiolaris seeds.

Strangler fig fruits are also green in color. The evergreen strangling fig tree has medicinal uses; the bark is used for making paper, gum, fiber, and as a source of timber. As a rock fig house plant, this bonsai plant is beautiful and a good gifting option.