Eden

Penang Botanic Gardens Plant Collection

Ficus religiosa L. (MORACEAE)

Posted at — Nov 13, 2019
Bodh-Tree, Pipal Tree

Description

Large deciduous strangling fig to 25 m tall, with few aerial roots. Crown spreading. Leaves 8-18 cm long, heart-shaped. Figs 1-1.5 cm across on leafy shoots, rounded, ripening greenish yellow then purple.

Ecology

Common on disturbed habitats and often naturalised.

Distribution

Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, China, Myanmar, Thailand.

Uses

Widely planted in temples by both Hindus and Buddhists for their religious beliefs. Also planted as an ornamental.