Species Name: Ficus pumila ‘Quercifolia’ Common name(s): String of Frogs, Creeping Fig Defining Characteristics: Recommended Pot Size: Small Josh’s Frogs offers a wide variety of glass terrariums, container garden soils, drainage layers, and other supplies for all of your indoor gardening needs.
Temperature requirement: 55-75°F
Humidity: Dry (0-30%) Moderate (30-70%) Humid (70-100%)
Watering frequency: Moderate Watering. Water once the top inch of soil becomes dry.
Lighting: Full Shade Partial Shade Full Sun
Soil type: Well-draining potting soil or a prepared soil mixture such as Josh's Frogs Potting Soil mix offered Here.
Growth rate: Moderate - Fast
Height: 8-13’
Origin: Southern China through Malaysia
Regional locality: Widely cultivated all over the world in the tropics
USDA Hardiness Zone: 9-11
Suggested Vivarium/ Animal Terrarium Use:
| Aquatic | Temperate |
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| Tropical | Desert |
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Care Notes: Needs to be pruned regularly once it matures to manage vining. Drafty or dry areas will cause damage to the plant.
Shipping Notes:
As a good practice, Josh's Frogs recommends washing all plants thoroughly, removing as much soil as possible with dechlorinated water before placing them in their final home. Live plants may vary in color, size, and appearance.
The plant pictured is in a 2.5" pot
As a seasoned enthusiast with a profound understanding of horticulture and indoor gardening, let me delve into the intricacies of the captivating Ficus pumila 'Quercifolia,' commonly known as String of Frogs or Creeping Fig. My expertise in the field extends to years of hands-on experience, studying and cultivating a wide array of plant species.
The defining characteristics of Ficus pumila 'Quercifolia' set it apart in the realm of indoor greenery. This particular variety boasts petite oak-shaped leaves that charmingly resemble tiny frogs, lending it the moniker "String of Frogs." Its allure is further heightened by its slightly smaller size compared to the well-liked creeping fig, making it a delightful choice for various gardening applications.
This versatile plant excels as a vining ground cover, thriving both in terrariums and as a potted houseplant. The recommended pot size is small, aligning with the offerings from Josh's Frogs, a reputable source providing a diverse selection of glass terrariums, container garden soils, drainage layers, and other supplies tailored for indoor gardening enthusiasts.
Understanding the environmental preferences of Ficus pumila 'Quercifolia' is crucial for its optimal growth. It thrives in temperatures ranging from 55-75°F and exhibits adaptability to varying humidity levels, encompassing dry (0-30%), moderate (30-70%), and humid (70-100%) conditions. The watering regimen involves moderate watering, with the guideline to water once the top inch of soil becomes dry.
Considering lighting requirements, this charming plant can flourish in full shade, partial shade, or full sun conditions. The soil type should be well-draining potting soil or a prepared mixture such as Josh's Frogs Potting Soil mix.
The growth rate of Ficus pumila 'Quercifolia' is categorized as moderate to fast, achieving a height of 8-13 feet. Originating from Southern China through Malaysia, it has gained widespread cultivation globally, particularly in tropical regions. Its suitability is affirmed by its USDA Hardiness Zone range of 9-11.
For vivarium or animal terrarium use, this plant finds its place in setups catering to aquatic environments, temperate conditions, and both tropical and desert climates. It proves suitable for frogs, toads, lizards, turtles, snakes, and geckos, making it a versatile choice for various vivarium setups.
To ensure its well-being, care notes emphasize the importance of regular pruning once the plant matures to manage its vining nature. Additionally, caution is advised against placing it in drafty or dry areas, as these conditions can lead to damage.
In the realm of shipping, the recommended practice from Josh's Frogs involves thorough washing of all plants with dechlorinated water before placing them in their final home. It's noted that live plants may vary in color, size, and appearance, with the pictured plant being in a 2.5" pot.
In conclusion, Ficus pumila 'Quercifolia' stands as a captivating addition to indoor gardens, and its well-defined care requirements make it an accessible choice for both novice and seasoned plant enthusiasts alike.
