Description
Bodhi Tree – Ficus religiosa. 3.7L coir pot.
Native to the Indian subcontinent and Indochina, this species of fig is of religious significance to the major religions in the region, Buddhism, Hinduism and Jainism.
According to Buddhist tradition, it is the tree Buddha sat under when he attained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya in Bihar, India.
This large, fast growing tree can grow to heights of over 20m in the garden. Some trees can grow for many hundreds (possibly thousands) of years.
The plant enjoys hot, humid conditions in a full sun position with well draining soil.
The heart-shaped leaves have distinctive extended tips. The tree releases oxygen both day and night, making it rather unique in the plant kingdom.
Figs are purple in colour and edible.
The bark, leaves and roots have been used in traditional medicine and contain compounds that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.