Ficus benghalensis (Banyan Fig, Banyan Tree, Bengal Banyan, Nyagrodha, Strangler Fig, Vada Tree)

Ficus benghalensis (Banyan Fig, Banyan Tree, Bengal Banyan, Nyagrodha, Strangler Fig, Vada Tree) is a massive, long-lived tropical fig tree native to the Indian subcontinent. It is famous for its broad, spreading canopy and remarkable ability to develop numerous aerial roots.

The tree produces aerial roots from its horizontal branches. These roots grow downward and, when they reach the soil, develop into thick supporting trunks. Over time, a single tree can spread across a very large area and resemble a small forest.

The leaves are large, thick, leathery, and broadly oval to elliptical, usually dark green with prominent veins. The tree also produces small fig fruits that typically become reddish or purplish when mature and provide food for birds and other wildlife.

Ficus benghalensis grows best in warm, humid tropical and subtropical climates with full sun and well-drained soil. In colder regions such as USDA Zone 7, it is better grown in a container, greenhouse, or as a bonsai and protected from freezing temperatures.

An important distinction is that Ficus benghalensis is not the Fiddle-leaf Fig. The Fiddle-leaf Fig is Ficus lyrata. Ficus benghalensis is properly known as the Banyan Tree, and its extraordinary aerial-root growth is its most characteristic feature.