Source: Wikimedia Commons
Chinese Banyan
BeginnerFicus microcarpa
A houseplant fig that lives for decades in a pot with steady care, and reaches several centuries in the wild. Known for its aerial roots and rounded leaves, and cherished in Okinawa as the tree where the kijimuna spirit dwells.
About
Ficus microcarpa, known as Chinese banyan, Indian laurel, or Malayan banyan, is an evergreen tree in the family Moraceae with a native range spanning from India through China, Japan, and Southeast Asia to Queensland, Australia. In Okinawa, it is revered as the dwelling place of forest spirits (Kijimunaa) and is considered a bringer of good fortune. The species is admired for its striking aerial roots that eventually merge with the trunk, creating a dramatic, sculptural silhouette even in pot cultivation. It prefers strong natural light and does best near a bright window. Water thoroughly when the soil dries, with more frequent watering during the growing season (spring to autumn) and reduced watering in winter. Fast-growing and responsive to pruning, making it easy to maintain a desired shape. Its unique form makes it a popular statement plant for interior spaces.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Chinese Banyan
The Chinese Banyan lives Decades in cultivation (centuries in the wild).
Size of the Chinese Banyan
The Chinese Banyan grows to 15cm-1.5m (potted).
Temperature & humidity for the Chinese Banyan
The ideal temperature for the Chinese Banyan is 5〜30℃.
Basic Info
Origin
India to southern China, Japan, Southeast Asia and northern Australia
Lifespan
Decades in cultivation (centuries in the wild)
Size
15cm-1.5m (potted)
Temperature
5〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It loves sun, so a bright windowsill is ideal. Prolonged low light causes leaf drop and leggy growth.
Watering
Water thoroughly once the soil dries. Water generously in the spring to autumn growing season and less in winter to prevent root rot.
Temperature & Overwintering
Tolerates 5-30°C and overwinters above 5°C. Bring it into a sunny room for winter and water less.
Pruning
Buds everywhere when cut. Fun shaping
Notes
Gets rootbound easily. Repot every 1-2 years
Chinese Banyan FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Chinese Banyan?
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.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Chinese Banyan?
The ideal temperature for Chinese Banyan is 5〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Chinese Banyan?
The average lifespan of Chinese Banyan is Decades in cultivation (centuries in the wild). With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Chinese Banyan get?
The mature size of Chinese Banyan is 15cm-1.5m (potted). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Chinese Banyan?
The price of Chinese Banyan varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 9–11
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
Foliage plant. Confirmed by document review to be non-applicable to CITES Appendix (Flora), designated invasive species, or designated animals (the genus does not appear in the CITES flora section; Dracaena spp. listings in CITES refer to a reptile genus of the same name; the plant Dracaena is not applicable).
Sources: CITES Appendices I/II/III (flora section, grepped via dbca mirror) / CITES Appendices (official) / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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