
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Triangle Fig
BeginnerFicus natalensis subsp. leprieurii
An African fig with roughly triangular leaves. Sold as Ficus triangularis, it is now treated as a subspecies of Ficus natalensis.
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.
Triangle Fig FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Triangle Fig?
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?
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?
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.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
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.
Find listings for this species
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