El Ficus ginseng It is one of the most popular bonsai trees in the world thanks to its exotic appearance, thickened trunk, and visible roots, as well as its relative ease of cultivation if you know its needs. It is often considered an ideal species for beginners, but its maintenance requires attention and certain knowledge to enjoy a healthy and aesthetically balanced tree for many years. This extensive article is the most detailed and complete guide in Spanish on the bonsai trees. care, characteristics, history and uses of Ficus ginseng as an indoor plant, garden plant and above all, as a bonsai, integrating expert recommendations and advanced techniques for its cultivation and ornamental design.
History and characteristics of Ficus ginseng
El Ficus ginseng It owes its commercial name to the similarity of its thickened roots to those of authentic ginseng. However, its correct botanical name is Ficus microcarp, a plant native to South and Southeast Asia, also found in tropical regions of Oceania and Australia. Its name comes from the Japanese word "ninjin" (carrot), as both the carrot (Daucus carota) such as ficus ginseng present napiform roots: roots that thicken, forming a striking bulb with nutrient reserves.
In its natural habitat, the Ficus microcarpa can reach heights of up to 15 meters, with crowns exceeding 5 meters in diameter, making it an imposing tree ideal for large gardens. Its aerial roots are distinctive, and once they touch the ground, they take root and fuse with the main trunk, forming colossal shapes resembling miniature forests.
Other botanical features of note include:
- evergreen leaves: Evergreen, leathery and shiny dark in colour, measuring between 4 and 13 cm in length, oval or elliptical, with a pointed tip.
- FloresTiny, white, and dioecious (male and female), they bloom in the leaf axils. Ficus flowers are usually hidden in a receptacle and pollinated by specialized wasps.
- Fruits: Small, 1 cm, their color can range from yellow to red when ripe.
- Milky latexWhen cut, the ficus exudes a thick, sticky sap, characteristic of the Moraceae family.
If we plant a Ficus ginseng in garden soil, over time it becomes a large ornamental tree:
Growing and caring for Ficus ginseng as a bonsai and ornamental plant
El Ficus ginseng It stands out for being resistant and versatile, and can be grown both indoors and outdoors, although it requires minimum conditions for successful development. Below you will find All the keys to growing it as a bonsai and ornamental plant, including information on substrate, irrigation, light, pruning, grafting, pests and most common problems, as well as detailed consultations How to care for a ficus bonsai.
Location and temperature
- Luz: It prefers abundant natural light, with full sun exposure being ideal. However, indoors it should be placed next to a bright window, avoiding cold drafts. If grown outdoors, it should be protected from direct sunlight during the middle of the day to avoid burning its leaves.
- Temperature: It is best to keep it between 16 and 28°C, avoiding sudden changes. In temperate climates, it is recommended to move it indoors if temperatures drop below 12-15°C. It is sensitive to sustained frost but can tolerate occasional drops to -2°C if well established and protected.
- HumidityIn dry indoor environments (especially under heating), it's advisable to spray the leaves with water to prevent dehydration and leaf drop. This helps simulate a tropical environment and encourages the development of aerial roots.
Irrigation
- El irrigation It should be moderate but regular. The key is not to let the substrate dry out completely, but also not to keep it waterlogged.
- In summer, it may need abundant and frequent watering (2-3 times per week), while in winter it should be spaced out (once every 7-10 days, but always checking the humidity). For a more complete guide, see How to water a ficus bonsai.
- To know if watering is necessary, insert a thin wooden stick into the substrate: if it comes out dry, it's time to water; if it comes out wet or with soil stuck to it, wait a few days.
- Use soft water at room temperature. Avoid very hard or cold water.
- La nebulization Daily humidity in the environment or on the leaves is very useful to maintain humidity, but excess should be avoided to avoid causing fungi.
- Good drainage is essential: the pot should have holes and water should never accumulate at the base of the container.
Substrate and transplant
- The ideal substrate is an aerated, well-drained mix. Commercial ficus bonsai mixes typically combine akadama, pumice, and peat or coconut fiber in proportions adjusted to the local humidity.
- Transplant: This should be done every 2-3 years, preferably in early spring. Take this opportunity to trim the roots slightly and renew some of the substrate. You can find tips at Good tips for transplanting ficus bonsais.
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- During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your ficus every two weeks using organic fertilizers or special liquid bonsai fertilizers, using low, even doses. For a more complete guide, see Weeping willow bonsai care.
- In pots, use liquid fertilizers diluted in water. In the garden, spread a 2-3 cm layer of compost, worm castings, or guano around the trunk once a month.
- In winter, reduce fertilization to once a month or stop if the tree noticeably reduces its vegetative activity.
Pruning and design
- Formation pruningEssential for maintaining the bonsai's aesthetics and size. Prune gently throughout spring and summer, always cutting from a well-oriented leaf.
- Maintenance pruning: Trim branches that are becoming too long. You can prune to 2 leaves after the branch has produced 6-8 leaves. If you want to reduce leaf size, you can perform partial defoliation.
- Root pruning: It is carried out during transplantation, carefully shortening very long roots but not the main root, which is what gives the characteristic "ginseng" appearance.
- milky sapAfter each pruning, the plant exudes a whitish latex. Wipe off the excess to avoid staining, but don't be alarmed: it's its natural defense and helps with healing. You can learn more about pruning techniques at how to prune a bonsai.
- Large pruning woundsCover them with a specific bonsai sealant. Ficus trees heal wounds well, but large cuts can take months to heal completely.
Wiring and modeling
- Ficus ginseng is flexible and tolerates wiring well, whether with aluminum or copper wire. For shaping techniques, check out .
- Check the wires every 3-4 weeks to prevent them from marking the bark. The rapid growth of the ficus can cause the wire to become embedded.
- Use tensioners or anchors to hold thick branches in the desired position for weeks or months, allowing for greater creative freedom in bonsai design.
Advanced techniques and creativity
- The ficus has a great capacity of merge roots and branches Applying pressure. You can group young seedlings together to form a single trunk, or graft aerial roots or branches into new areas to speed wound healing or thicken the base.
- Aerial roots can be induced by high humidity and wrapping branches with moist moss and plastic. When they touch the substrate, they take root and develop into new pillars.
- Proximity grafting is possible, both on branches and roots, as well as air layering to obtain new specimens or thicker branches.
Multiplication
- El ficus ginseng It can be reproduced by semi-woody cuttings at any time of the year, although it is most successful in summer.
- Air layering is a common spring technique for growing plants with thickened roots. For more details, visit Ficus tiger bark and air layering techniques.
- Sowing by seed is less common, but also viable in warm and humid conditions.
Plagues and diseases
- The ficus is pest resistant, but can be affected in dry environments by mealybugs (cottony or shell), Mites and occasionally aphidsTo avoid this, consult Ficus diseases and pests.
- In winter or after transplanting or severe pruning, stress and low light can cause leaf drop. These symptoms usually subside with improvements in temperature, humidity, and ambient light.
- Fungal infections occur if there is excessive moisture on leaves or substrate. Maintain ventilation and use fungicides if you notice black or brown spots.
- Always use insecticides suitable for indoor plants and in the minimum dosage. Prevention, with good aeration and irrigation control, is the best strategy.
- Some varieties of Ficus microcarpa, including ginseng, contain substances that can be toxic to pets if ingested in large quantities. Avoid letting dogs or cats chew on it.
Most common problems and how to solve them
- Falling green leavesThis usually occurs due to sudden changes in temperature, lack of light, drafts, over- or under-watering. Gradually adapting the ficus to changes in location and adjusting the watering regime usually resolves the problem.
- Yellow sheets: Indicates overwatering or poorly drained substrate. Let it dry for a few days and improve substrate aeration.
- Small or poorly developed leaves: Lack of light, insufficient nutrients, or a pot that's too small. Moving to a brighter location and feeding regularly will help restore the plant.
What is Ficus ginseng used for?
In addition to its extensive use in ornamental gardening , as a beginner bonsai, Ficus ginseng is planted for other reasons:
- Bird attraction: Its small fruits are very attractive to different species of birds, contributing to the ecological balance of urban gardens and parks.
- Shadow barrierIn large gardens, planted in the ground, it provides dense shade and protection from the wind.
- Interior aesthetics: Its compact size and tuberous roots make it the protagonist of modern and classic decorations.
- Kokedamas and other Japanese techniques: It is common to find Ficus ginseng in kokedamas and terrariums due to its adaptability and tolerance to varied environments.
It is important to note that, despite its ornamental value, in tropical regions outside of Asia Ficus microcarpa ginseng is sometimes considered Invasive species Due to its rapid growth and ability to displace other native species (such as those found in Hawaii, Florida, parts of Central and South America, and Bermuda), in temperate climates, it's best to keep it in pots or keep it under control if planted outdoors.
Practical recommendations and frequently asked questions about Ficus ginseng
- Is Ficus ginseng a real bonsai? Although commonly sold as an "IKEA bonsai" and very popular, the Ficus ginseng is usually a pre-bonsai or modeled nursery plant. With work, it can become a bonsai with its own unique character.
- Can it be grown only indoors? Although it adapts well to bright interiors, in mild climates it greatly enjoys spending spring and summer outdoors, strengthening its trunk and leaves.
- When to transplant? The best time is early spring, when vegetative activity begins, taking advantage of the opportunity to check roots and renew the substrate.
- How to achieve attractive aerial roots? Applying high humidity and covering the branches with moss or plastic bags for weeks.
- What to do in case of a plague? The first step is to improve environmental conditions (light, ventilation, humidity) and clean the leaves manually. If the problem persists, use mild soaps or insecticides.
- Is it toxic to pets? Yes. All parts, especially the latex, can be irritating or toxic if ingested. Keep the ficus out of reach of curious animals.
Cultivate a Ficus ginseng It's a spectacular, long-lived, and easy-care species if you follow some basic guidelines for light, watering, pruning, and fertilization. Its ability to develop amazing roots and branches, as well as its resilience, make it an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced bonsai enthusiasts. By following these recommendations, you'll have a ficus that will be the center of attention in your home or garden, and that will reward you with its beauty and vitality year after year.
