Ice Caps Variegated Creeping Fig

Ice Caps Variegated Creeping Fig (Ficus pumila 'Ice Caps') is the fastest way to turn a bare block wall into a green one. Small heart shaped leaves edged in cream cling flat to the surface, climbing to about 3m and spreading 3m sideways, so a run of fence disappears in a couple of seasons. The variegation lifts a shaded courtyard in a way plain creeping fig never does.

Why you'll love it

• It covers walls fast. A quick grower that self clings, so there is no wire, no trellis and no tying in.
• Cream variegation that reads from a distance. The pale margins keep a shaded wall from going flat green, which is the usual result with the plain form.
• A flat, tailored finish. Juvenile growth presses tight against the surface, giving the sheeted look designers use on courtyard walls.
• Coastal and heat tolerant. Salt tolerant, heat tolerant and comfortable in humidity, so exposed courtyards and seaside walls suit it.

Where it works best

Walls, fences and screening. Plant 50cm apart to cover a wall quickly. Use it on masonry, blockwork and hardwood fencing, and read the warning below first.

Retaining walls, slopes and pots. It cascades down a wall face as readily as it climbs one, holds soil on a bank where mowing is impossible, and forms a groundcover mat about 200mm deep.

One point to be clear on before planting: the clinging roots grip hard and can damage render, paint and mortar when the plant is pulled off. Keep it away from painted surfaces, heritage brickwork and pipes, and clip it off gutters and roof lines every year.

Growing Ice Caps Creeping Fig in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun to part shade both work, with the strongest variegation in bright light and the best leaf size in part shade. It suits tropical, subtropical and warm temperate gardens and takes light frost only, so hard frosting inland and southern gardens should choose a hardier climber.

Soil. Ordinary garden soil is fine as long as it drains. Improve sandy ground with compost, mound heavy clay, and mulch 50mm deep clear of the stems.

Water and feed. Twice a week through the first summer while it attaches, then weekly in dry spells. A complete slow release fertiliser in early spring and mid summer keeps growth fast and the variegation clean.

Pruning. Clip it two or three times a year. Regular trimming keeps the small flat juvenile leaves; left alone, mature stems stand off the wall and carry coarser foliage. Wear gloves, because the milky sap irritates skin.

What to expect when it arrives

It is grown in three sizes: tube stock, 140mm in packs of ten and 200mm in packs of six, with tube and 200mm running on backorder at times. Tubes are the value choice for a long wall, since the plant grows fast enough that the head start from a larger pot is quickly erased.

Climbers travel with their runners loose and can look untidy on arrival, which is cosmetic. Plant against the wall, water in well, and expect the first shoots to attach within four to six weeks in warm weather. Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95, a minimum order of $300 before delivery, and our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• How to train and trim a climbing fig
• Browse the full climber range
• Plants for retaining walls and steep slopes
• Softening fences and hard walls with planting

Common questions

Will it damage my wall?

It can. The clinging roots grip render, paint and mortar firmly, and removing an established plant usually takes the surface finish with it. Use it on sound masonry you are happy to commit.

How far apart should I plant it?

Fifty centimetres apart along the base of the wall for quick, even coverage. Wider spacing still works, it simply takes an extra season.

Will it hold its variegation in shade?

Partly. The cream margins are strongest in bright light and fade towards green in deep shade. Part shade with a few hours of sun is the best compromise.