How to Grow a Ginseng Ficus Bonsai

Ginseng figs (Ficus microcarpa), also known as curtain figs, ginseng ficus, Indian laurel, or Chinese or Malayan banyans, are incredibly popular as bonsai specimens.

That’s because they have a thick trunk that looks like it took hundreds of years to develop, but actually takes under a decade – perfect for the impatient bonsai artist.

They can also be grown indoors, unlike many species grown as bonsai, which must be raised outside. On top of that, they adapt easily to shaping and are generally vigorous and tough.

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It comes as no surprise that this is often a popular species for people interested in getting started with bonsai. You can often find them pre-potted and shaped, at both specialty retailers and big-box giants, ginseng figs are just perfect for the purpose.

If you aren’t familiar with growing ginseng figs, check out our guide.

In this guide, we’ll discuss how to grow these plants as bonsai. Here’s what I’ll cover:

Can’t wait to enjoy your new specimen? Let’s dive in.

Ginseng Ficus Basics

In the wild, ginseng ficus trees usually start their lives as epiphytes, which means that they anchor onto other plants for support.

As the trees age, they send down aerial roots that anchor into the ground. They wean themselves from the host tree and transition to life as terrestrial trees.

These aerial roots can mimic trunks and are part of what helps create the “aged trunk” look that makes this species so highly valued as bonsai.

They can also grow small fruits, which is an exciting addition to any display.

Though the trees can grow up to 100 feet tall and twice as wide in the

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