Family: Moraceae

Ficus pumila, commonly known as creeping fig, is a fast-growing, evergreen vine native to East Asia, including southern China, Japan, and Vietnam. This plant is characterized by its small, heart-shaped leaves and its ability to adhere to surfaces using adhesive aerial roots. It thrives in warm, humid environments and is often used as ground cover or to cover walls, fences, and trellises. In regions with mild winters, it can grow up to 10–15 feet tall, while in colder climates, it is typically grown as a houseplant.

Creeping fig is appreciated for its ornamental value, providing a lush, green backdrop in gardens and indoor spaces. It is also utilized in topiary and terrariums due to its dense foliage and ease of training. However, it requires regular pruning to prevent it from becoming invasive and potentially damaging structures. While not toxic, contact with its milky sap can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

High Risk Traits:

• Fast-growing, climbing, smothering vine
  
• Tolerates wide range of soils, pH, and light conditions
  
• Damages structures and vegetation
  
• Reproduces vegetatively from stem fragments
  
• Spread via garden waste and intentional planting
  
• Resprouts after cutting or pruning

Low Risk Traits:

• Requires specific pollinator wasp for seed set (absent in most areas)
  
• Limited seed production outside native range
  
• No wind, or water dispersal of seeds
  
• Not reported as agricultural weed
  
• Not spiny, parasitic, or toxic to animals
  
• No persistent seed bank