Ficus roxburghii

Description :

This plant is evergreen and perennial shrub or a small tree that grows up to 5 to 10 m long vertically with numerous branches, the trunk is brown in colour. The leaves are very large, round and ovate and are of about 30 to 40 cm    long and 40 to 45 cm wide. Its petioles are about 14 cm long and stipules are about 2 to 3 cm long. Male and female flowers are produced as separate individuals. They start off being red then turn to green. Fruits are in the shape pear and reddish brown when fully ripen. Fruits appear on thin branches emerging from the trunk or from the roots. Fruits are very much liked for the jelly like structure contained in them.

Distribution :

Native to Asia, it is cultivated from the Himalayas to southern China, Pakistan, Hainan, India, Malay Peninsula and Brazil. Its native habitat is terrestrial (Riverine), and its preferable climate is sub-tropical. It flourishes very well in rich organic and moist soils and this plant is very sensitive to dry winds.

Uses :

The plant has both edible and medicinal uses. The fruits can be eaten as raw and also can be used to make jams, juices, and curries. In some areas, unripe fruits are used as salads. Leaves are used as fodder for ruminants.  The latex from the stems when applied to cuts and wounds it heals them. The roasted fruit is used in the treatment of dysentery and diarrhoea. The plant can also be used in the field of agroforestry; the planted tree can be used to stop soil erosion.

 

 

(Kuaraksa et al., 2012; Jansen et al., 1991)