Family: Moraceae

Ficus virens (spotted fig, white fig) is a large, fast-growing tree native to South and Southeast Asia. It is valued for its broad canopy, glossy green leaves, and distinctive pale bark marked with irregular spots, which gives it the common name “spotted fig.” This species produces small figs that attract birds and other wildlife, making it an appealing choice for landscaping and urban greening. Ficus virens can tolerate a range of soil types and climates, and it is often planted along streets, in parks, and in open spaces for shade and aesthetic appeal.

While Ficus virens has traits that could allow it to naturalize in Hawaii, its ability to spread is greatly limited without its specific pollinator wasp. Without this pollinator, fruit production is minimal, reducing the tree’s potential to establish and compete with native plants in natural habitats. As a result, although it is important to monitor for escape, Ficus virens remains primarily a striking and useful species for cultivated landscapes when managed responsibly.

High Risk Traits:

• Broad climate suitability (tropical/subtropical)
  
• Other Ficus species are invasive
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds and water
  
• Can reproduce from fragments and resprout after damage
  
• Forms a persistent seed bank (>1 year)

Low Risk Traits:

• Not reported as a weed
  
• Not naturalized outside native range
  
• Not toxic or spiny
  
• Requires a specialist pollinator to set seed
  
• Not self-fertile and no evidence of hybridization
  
• Low risk of unintentional dispersal