Family: Moraceae

Ficus natalensis is a large, evergreen tree native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. It is known for its broad, glossy leaves and distinctive aerial roots that can develop into trunks, allowing the tree to spread and form dense canopies. In its native habitat, the Natal fig plays a vital role in the ecosystem by providing food and shelter for various wildlife species. Its fruit is particularly important for birds and other animals, serving as a year-round food source. The tree is often found in forests, along riverbanks, and in other moist, well-drained soils.

Despite its uses, the Natal fig has traits that require careful consideration. It shares a genus with other fig species known to be invasive. Its fruits are bird-dispersed, which allows seeds to be carried into native forests and germinate in treetops or rocky crevices. Its potential to grow as a strangler fig poses a risk to native host trees. However, its spread is often limited by its unique pollination system, which requires a specific species of fig wasp to produce fertile seeds. For these reasons, caution is advised when planting it in areas with vulnerable native ecosystems.

High Risk Traits:

• High climate match to tropical/subtropical regions
  
• Broad environmental versatility
  
• Weedy congener (other Ficus species are invasive)
  
• Shade tolerant
  
• Bird-dispersed seeds
  
• Tolerates pruning/mutilation

Low Risk Traits:

• No evidence of naturalization
  
• No weed history
  
• No spines/thorns/burrs
  
• Not a significant pest host
  
• Requires specialist pollinator (fig wasp)
  
• Slow maturation (>4 years)
  
• No vegetative spread
  
• No persistent seed bank