Ficus benghalensis

[northcountyguy]

Sometime in the next day or two I will be planting my F. benghalensis outside here in Fallbrook, CA.. Could anyone guess how big this tree might get under optimum conditions? Frost free usually (got down to 31 degrees one morning this past winter though). Ground water here about 10 to 15 feet below surface (fresh not saline).

I'll be positioning the tree  25-30 feet uphill from my house. Is my house safe!!!? ha,ha,ha,

I know they can become enormous quickly in South Florida,Hawaii and other similar climates but I'd really be most interested in hearing comments from other Californians on this one.

Thanks

[epicure3]

There are some people growing it for sure. Just can't remember who. The SD Zoo has one but, for the most part, you'll find it smaller than most of the other ficus varieties and slower growing as well. It will certainly be manageable, that's for sure.

[fastfeat]

Fullerton Arboretum has one, planted in 1982, that's about 20' tall X 30' wide, maybe a little smaller. It has a few aerial roots that have become secondary trunks.

I'd consider it a small tree in CA--I seriously doubt it would ever reach the size of F. microcarpa, F. rubiginosa, or F. religiosa in SoCal, even under the best of conditions. 25-30' from the house should be fine.

[Gtlevine]

I have one in Escondido about 15 feet tall after three years, I expect them to get very big over time even in So Cal.

Gary

[northcountyguy]

Gary, Since I got the benghalensis from you the plant is probably caring the same genetic propensities as yours. I'll consider myself warned!!

Thank you everyone for your response. The little guy was planted this afternoon. I'll report back as soon as the first drop root comes thru the ceiling!!    :laugh:

[kylecawazafla]

What a great choice in tree. Are you looking for a true banyan look or just a small tropical evergreen?

[northcountyguy]

An added note regarding possible size of Ficus benghalensis in Southern California.

A friend of mine (A.V. from San Diego) privately emailed me with this bit of info. He tells me that in Don Hodel's book 'Exceptional Trees of Los Angeles', there is a mentioned (along with a picture)  F. benghalensis located in Whittier, CA at the C. Nelles State School. According to the book it's an historical landmark and measures 60' wide x 50' high (the book was published in 1988). The original date of planting according to the book was 1904. Thank you A.V. and of course, Don Hodel!