Scientific Name: Ficus Watkinsiana
Common Name: Strangler Fig
Indigenous Use
Edible fruit eaten ripe.
When to Use
Ficus watkinsiana, commonly known as the strangler fig, typically bears fruit that ripens around mid to late summer. In Australia, this would generally be from December to March.
Identification
Leaves: The leaves of Ficus watkinsiana, commonly known as Watkins’ Fig, are large, glossy, and elliptical to oblong in shape. They typically measure between 10-20 cm in length and 5-10 cm in width. The leaves are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green beneath, with prominent veins and a smooth texture (Australian National Botanic Gardens, 2024; Plants of the World Online, 2024).
Bark: The bark of Ficus watkinsiana is grey to brown and smooth when the tree is young, becoming rougher and more fissured as it matures. This fig tree can grow to a substantial height, often reaching up to 30 meters, and is known for its buttress roots that provide structural support (Australian National Botanic Gardens, 2024).
Flowers: The flowers of Ficus watkinsiana are small and contained within a syconium, the fig’s unique fruiting structure. These syconia develop in the leaf axils and house the tiny flowers, which are pollinated by specific fig wasps (Plants of the World Online, 2024).
Fruit: The fruit of Ficus watkinsiana is a globular fig, measuring approximately 2-3 cm in diameter. The figs are initially green, turning dark purple to black when ripe, typically in late summer to early autumn. These figs are edible and attract a variety of wildlife, which helps in seed dispersal (Australian National Botanic Gardens, 2024; Floridata, 2024).
Ecosystems
Found in the below ecosystem/s.
Freshwater Wetlands: Freshwater wetlands are ecosystems where freshwater accumulates in substantial quantities, creating habitats that support diverse plant and animal life. These wetlands can even occur in sand dunes, although those situated above the water table tend to dry out more frequently. Common vegetation in these wetlands includes reeds, sedges, and water lilies, as well as trees like Melaleuca (paperbark) and swamp box. Notable examples of extensive freshwater wetlands in South East Queensland include the Cooloola Wetlands, Pimpama Conservation Park, and Springbrook Plateau. These areas are vital for biodiversity, water purification, and flood control.
Eucalyptus Forests: Eucalyptus forests are characterised by their dominant eucalyptus tree species, thriving in a variety of soil types and pH levels, usually ranging from 4.5 to 7. These forests support a diverse understory of shrubs, grasses, and ground covers, and are adapted to periodic fires which help in seed germination and pest control. Common plants found in eucalyptus forests include wattles, grevilleas, and native grasses. These ecosystems are prominent in areas such as Toohey Forest, the Glass House Mountains, and D’Aguilar National Park.
References
Australian National Botanic Gardens (2024). Ficus watkinsiana. Available at: https://www.anbg.gov.au/ficus-watkinsiana [Accessed 24 June 2024].
Plants of the World Online (2024). Ficus watkinsiana. Available at: https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid
.org:names:853202-1 [Accessed 24 June 2024].
Floridata (2024). Ficus watkinsiana. Available at: https://www.floridata.com/Plants/Moraceae/Ficus-watkinsiana/567 [Accessed 24 June 2024].
Leiper, Glen, Muteroo: Plant use by Australian Aboriginal People. Eagleby South State School, Brisbane
Leiper, G., Glazebrook, J., Cox, D., & Rathie, K., 2008. Mountain to Mangroves: A Field Guide to the Native Plants of South-east Queensland. Logan River Branch, Society for Growing Australian Plants.