Native & adapted

Indian cluster fig

Ficus racemosa

Also known as Cluster fig · Gular · Udumbara · Ficus glomerata

A large fig tree that bears clusters of small figs directly on its trunk and main branches. Grown in India for food, shade and its spiritual significance.

EdibleFruitingShade treeFast growing

Landscape layersUpper canopy

Mature size

30–40 ft tall and 25–30 ft wide

Climate fit

Urban core · USDA 9b–10a · Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b

Plant spacing

25 ft from other trees; 20 ft from buildings and pipes

Frost

Young trees damaged near 30°F; mature trees survive brief dips to the high 20s°F.

Special categories

EDIBLE

Hardiness guidance

USDA 10–11; damaged below about 30°F

Winter chill

None

Typical harvest

Figs form in several flushes through the warm season.

Before you plant

These conditions determine whether it will thrive.

Soil chemistry

Tolerates a wide range of soils.

Required microclimate

Placement is part of the growing system.

Large open space, well away from pipes, pools and foundations.

Cold hardiness

Cover on every frost night

No tested cold figure. Nurseries list it as frost sensitive for zones 9 to 10, so cover young trees any frost night; a full-size tree can't be covered, so expect some dieback after a hard freeze.

Heat tolerance

Shade from late-afternoon sun

A fast, deciduous or semi-deciduous tree from hot tropical Asia that takes full sun or part shade. There's no Phoenix data, so water it deeply and watch for leaf scorch on the west side.

Sources:

toptropicals.com , en.wikipedia.org

Right plant, right place

Will Indian cluster fig grow at your Arizona property?

Aggressive roots like most large figs. Plant at least 20 ft from buildings and water lines.

Best regional fit: Urban core · USDA 9b–10a, Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b.

Light

Sun exposure

Full sun once established.

Water

Irrigation

Moderate. Deep water weekly in summer.

Fruit set

Pollination

In its native range a specific fig wasp pollinates it. That wasp is not established in Arizona, so expect a lighter or less reliable crop.

Harvest

How to use it

Ripe figs are eaten fresh or cooked; unripe ones are cooked as a vegetable.

Planting & stewardship

How to help Indian cluster fig thrive

1
Water deeply and widely to encourage deep roots.
2
Cover young trees on frost nights.
3
Prune to keep a clear trunk and manageable size.
4
Expect fruit drop; rake regularly.

Read the horticultural reference ↗