Chinese Banyan

Chinese banyan (Ficus microcarpa) is a broadleaf evergreen fig with a dense rounded crown, smooth gray bark, and aerial roots that can descend from branches and form additional trunks. Outdoors in warm climates it becomes a large shade tree; indoors it can be maintained as a container tree or bonsai. [North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ficus-microcarpa/common-name/chinese-banyan/) ## Form and Siting Mature size varies widely with climate, growing space, and pruning. North Carolina Extension reports trees reaching about 40 feet tall with a similar crown in Mediterranean climates, while its dimensions span a broader range. Give an outdoor specimen generous room and keep it away from pavement and structures, since aerial roots can damage hardscape and seedlings may establish in cracks. It is listed for USDA zones 9a–11b and is often grown indoors or as bonsai in cooler regions. ## Growing Conditions Grow in full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil with organic matter. Warmth and humidity support vigorous growth and aerial-root development. Container plants need a bright position and a potting mix that drains freely; allow the surface to dry slightly between waterings rather than keeping roots waterlogged. ## Maintenance Prune to manage the crown and remove branches that conflict with nearby paths or structures. Check regularly for scale, mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites, and reduce watering if the mix remains wet. Birds feed on the small fruit, which can disperse seed where the tree is cultivated.