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Triangle Fig (Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Triangle Fig

Beginner

Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii

An African fig with roughly triangular leaves. Sold as Ficus triangularis, it is now treated as a subspecies of Ficus natalensis.

Growing Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
15〜30℃
Lifespan
Evergreen tree (long-lived)
Size
Little data on potted size; it can be kept in shape by pruning
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering
Slow-release fertiliser in the growing season

About

The plant sold as Ficus triangularis is an evergreen fig with roughly triangular leaves. GBIF treats Ficus triangularis Warb. as a synonym of Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii, a combination made by C.C.Berg in 1988. This subspecies occurs in West and Central Africa, from Senegal, Guinea, Ghana, Nigeria and Cameroon to the Congo region, Angola and Zambia. The species F. natalensis as a whole ranges from northeastern South Africa to Uganda and Kenya, and in Uganda its bark is used to make traditional barkcloth. It grows fast and is tough, and is also used for bonsai. As a houseplant it is sold as a small pot plant valued for its unusual leaves, and a variegated form is also available. Ficus deltoidea also has triangular leaves and a similar name, so take care not to confuse them. Availability in Japan is limited to specialist houseplant shops and online retailers.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Basic Info

Origin

West and Central Africa (Senegal to Angola and Zambia)

Lifespan

Evergreen tree (long-lived)

Size

Little data on potted size; it can be kept in shape by pruning

Temperature

15〜30℃

Humidity

50〜70%

Watering & Fertilizer

Slow-release fertiliser in the growing season

Growing Tips

Light & Placement

Keep in bright indoor light. Figs tend to drop leaves when moved suddenly, so find a spot and leave it there.

Watering

Water thoroughly when the surface dries and empty the saucer. Keep drier in winter.

Temperature & Overwintering

A tropical African plant that dislikes cold; keep it in a warm room in winter.

Soil & Repotting

Plant in a free-draining houseplant mix and repot in warm weather when root-bound.

Propagation

Propagate by cuttings or air layering.

Pests & Cautions

Watch for spider mites, scale and mealybugs. Figs exude a milky latex containing ficin and furanocoumarins that can irritate skin, especially in sunlight, and upset the stomachs of dogs and cats. Wear gloves when pruning and keep it away from pets. F. natalensis has current registered varieties in Japan ('HANFICVAR1', No. 28345; 'ESPE1903', No. 31017), so named or variegated plants may be protected. Registered varieties cannot be propagated for sale or transfer without permission, so check first.

FicusTriangular leavesAfricaSmall pot plant

Triangle Fig FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Triangle Fig?
A

Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.

QHow should I water and fertilize Triangle Fig?
A

Triangle Fig: watering & fertilizer — Slow-release fertiliser in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Triangle Fig?
A

The price of Triangle Fig varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: September 23, 2026

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Ficus natalensis subsp. leprieurii (Miq.) C.C.Berg

Synonyms: Ficus triangularis Warb., Ficus leprieurii Miq., Ficus chrysocerasus Welw. ex Warb.

Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Not listed in the CITES Appendices. Not a designated invasive alien species in Japan, nor a nationally rare species under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species.The subspecies itself is not protected, but Ficus natalensis has current registered varieties in Japan ('HANFICVAR1', No. 28345; 'ESPE1903', No. 31017). Named plants may be protected; registered varieties cannot be propagated for sale or transfer without the breeder's permission.

Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Invasive Alien Species / MAFF Plant Variety Registration Database

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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