Indian Laurel Fig Column

Indian Laurel Fig Column is a trained columnar form of the evergreen Ficus microcarpa commonly sold as ‘Nitida’. Its dense, glossy foliage makes a strong vertical screen, while pruning maintains the narrow outline; the full-size tree can become much broader if allowed to grow naturally. [Urban Tree Farm Nursery](https://www.urbantreefarm.com/product/ficus-microcarpa-nitida-column/) [Boething Treeland Farms](https://www.boethingtreeland.com/plants/ficus-microcarpa-nitida-retusa/) ## Placement and Size Use it as a clipped screen, hedge, or upright accent where there is room for recurring maintenance and eventual tree growth. A nursery listing for the column form gives a mature range of 30–40 feet tall and wide, so do not rely on the trained silhouette as a permanent narrow width. The evergreen canopy grows best in full sun and tolerates partial shade. ## Soil and Water Plant in well-drained soil; the species adapts to clay, loam, or sandy ground when drainage is good. Water regularly during establishment, then reduce irrigation as the root system develops. Established trees tolerate dry conditions, and coastal nurseries list the plant for seacoast landscapes. ## Maintenance Prune to maintain the column and keep foliage clear of walkways, walls, and overhead lines. Inspect the canopy after cold snaps because this tropical tree is frost-sensitive. Allow adequate rooting space and avoid planting close to paving or utilities.