Ficus sagittata

Ficus sagittata is a small-leaved, creeping-climbing fig with arrow-shaped, slightly elongated leaves. It forms dense cushions of greenery or thin, trailing shoots that readily attach to backgrounds, cork and roots. Thanks to this growth habit it works perfectly both as a groundcover plant and as a vertical accent in humid tropical terrariums and paludariums.

A natural “carpet” in the terrarium

In the wild, Ficus sagittata inhabits warm, humid forests of Asia, where it covers tree trunks, rocks and leaf litter. In the terrarium it behaves similarly – it quickly roots in gaps in the substrate and decorations, gradually forming a dense green cover. It is perfect for: planting structural backgrounds, hiding the edges of bowls and water features, filling empty spaces between roots and stones. With adequate humidity it spreads easily and naturally “ties” the whole layout together.

A functional plant for bioactive enclosures

The fine root system of Ficus sagittata helps stabilize the substrate and improves the microclimate in the terrarium. Dense foliage provides hiding places for small invertebrates, amphibians or smaller reptiles, while not visually dominating the composition. The plant tolerates pruning well – it can be cut back regularly, thickened and guided in the desired direction. Cut fragments root easily, which makes it simple to add more plants in other parts of the setup.
IMPORTANT: at low air humidity the leaf edges may dry out, and overly bright, direct light causes bleaching. It is worth providing constant humidity and gentle, diffused lighting.

Ficus sagittata – cultivation conditions:

• Moist but well-draining substrate with good aeration
• High air humidity, regular misting or fog
• Optimal temperature: 20-28°C
• Diffuse light, semi-shade, avoid direct sun
• Responds well to pruning and shaping of shoots