Variegated Creeping Fig

Variegated Creeping Fig (Ficus pumila) is a vigorous, self-clinging evergreen climber with small heart-shaped leaves marked in cream and green. It grows up to 6m tall and wide, so a single plant can cover an unsightly fence or wall with a flat, living layer. It is slightly less vigorous than the all-green form, but still quick to establish.

Why you'll love it

• Climbs without wires. Aerial roots grip the surface, so there is no need for trellis or ties.
• Colour all year. The cream and green variegation brightens shaded walls and courtyards in every season.
• A very low profile. Growth stays flat against the surface, which keeps walls and fences looking clean and tailored.
• Many uses. It suits fences, archways, topiary, indoor pots and hanging baskets.
• Quick to establish. It covers surfaces fast, but is a little less vigorous than the all-green form, so it needs a little less clipping.

Where it works best

Fences and walls. Plant 1m apart along the base of a fence or wall. Take care on painted and rendered surfaces, because the aerial roots may mark them. Sound brick or block is a safer choice.

Archways and topiary. Clipped regularly, it can be trained over an arch or shaped into topiary forms.

Baskets, pots and indoors. In a hanging basket the stems cascade, and as a houseplant it adds a little greenery to a bright room.

Growing Variegated Creeping Fig in Australia

Position and climate. Choose a mostly shaded position with plenty of indirect light. In tropical and subtropical regions it will also grow in full sun, provided it has enough water. It suits most frost-free parts of Australia, including tropical, subtropical and warm temperate gardens, and needs shelter from frost in cooler regions.

Soil. Plant into free-draining soil rich in organic matter. Dig compost into the planting area and mulch the root zone.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly until the plant is established, and give extra water during dry periods. Feed with a controlled release fertiliser each spring, followed by a liquid fertiliser monthly through summer.

Pruning. Growth can be prolific, so trim the side shoots and shape the plant as often as needed. Regular clipping keeps the neat juvenile leaves. Left for years, a creeping fig can turn coarse and heavy.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Variegated Creeping Fig as tube stock (a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly), in 140mm pots in packs of 10 and in 200mm pots in packs of 6. Tubes are the economical way to cover a long fence, and the 140mm and 200mm pots give a head start on a feature panel or small wall. Expect a modest plant at first. Once it finds its footing, growth is quick, and plants usually take a couple of seasons to cover a wall.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Our ficus range
• More climbers for Australian gardens
• Climbing fig care: green walls and clipping
• Plants to soften fences and retaining walls

Common questions

Will it damage my walls?

It can. The aerial roots may mark painted and rendered surfaces and can leave residue, so plant it on sound brick, block or a fence you do not plan to repaint soon.

How fast will it cover a wall?

It is quick to establish, and a wall is usually covered within a couple of seasons. The variegated form is a little less vigorous than the all-green one.

Is it safe for cats and dogs?

No. Like other figs, it has a milky sap that can irritate skin and upset pets if chewed, so keep it out of reach and wear gloves when you prune.