No tracking. No cookies. No ads. Privacy-first
bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well) indoors; partial shade to full sun (6 or more hours of sun hitting the leaves per day. South-facing window, no obstructions. Under grow lights, keep them 4-8 inches away for 12-14 hours) outdoors with consistent moisture. Insufficient light causes elongated stems and pale leaves; too much direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute) scorches.Light
Keep soil lightly moist spring through fall. Let the top half-inch dry before watering again. Reduce in winter. Never let roots dry out completely or leaves brown and drop. Always use a pot with drainage holes.Water
high humidity (60-80%. Group your plants together, set them on a pebble tray with water, or run a humidifier nearby) preference - one reason it excels in terrariums. Average indoor air is acceptable but extra humidity keeps it looking its best.Humidity
55-75°F (13-24°C). Not frost-tolerant; protect below 30°F. Hardy outdoors in USDA Zones 8a-11b.Temperature
easyDifficulty
Ficus pumila plant

Dwarf Creeping Fig

Ficus pumila

Easy

Dwarf Creeping Fig is a vigorous evergreen vine that attaches to surfaces via tiny adhesive root discs — give it a wall, a trellis, or a moss pole and it will cover it entirely. Young plants have small, heart-shaped, slightly puckered leaves with a delicate texture; as vines mature they develop larger, leathery adult foliage. It's a popular choice for terrariums (it loves humidity and stays compact there) and for covering walls in warm-climate gardens.

Care Guide

How to grow Dwarf Creeping Fig

Light

bright indirect light (3-6 feet

Water

Keep soil lightly moist spring through fall.

Humidity

60-80%

Temperature

55-75°F

Soil

Moist, well-drained mix high in organic matter.

Propagation

Stem cuttings root readily.

Common Problems

Scale, aphids, mealybugs, thrips, and

Did You Know

Fun Facts

A variety of creeping fig (Ficus pumila var. awkeotsang) produces a gel from its seeds that is the source of aiyu jelly — a popular dessert in Taiwan served chilled with honey and lemon juice. The jelly is named after a merchant's daughter who reportedly discovered how to make it in the 1800s.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Toxic to cats and dogs (GI irritation if ingested). The milky white sap can cause phytophotodermatitis - a skin reaction triggered by sun exposure after contact. Listed in the FDA Database of Poisonous Plants.

Copied to clipboard