Family: Moraceae
Scientific name: Ficus auriculata
Common name: Elephant ear fig
Origin: South China

The Elephant-eared Fig derives its name from its large, ear-shaped leaves of up to 45 cm in length. Young leaves have a copper red color and later turn green. The species originates in moist valleys in southern China and can reach a height of 10 meters there. Before flowering, clusters of fruits are formed on the trunk and side branches and the flowers are located in them. This is common in fig species, as also in the European fig known to us. Through a narrow entrance, fig wasps can enter the fruit to eat and lay eggs, pollinating the flowers. After pollination, the fruits continue to grow until they are ripe and become attractive to animals and humans due to a sweet taste. They can be eaten as hand fruit or processed into jams and curries. The leaves are also edible and are fed to animals in Asia. 

The species can be kept as a houseplant at a minimum of 10 deg C. Fruit setting is unfortunately not possible in our country, as pollination can only be done by a specific Asian fig wasp. But the graceful leaves make it an attractive species to keep. Provide a sunny location and a well-drained soil. If the temperature gets too low in winter, the leaves may fall off. These will come back by themselves when the plant is put back in a warmer place. 

Sowing description: Sow seeds shallowly in sowing and cutting soil. Keep the soil constantly lightly moist and allow to germinate in a light spot at 20-25 degrees Celsius. Germination usually takes place after 4-6 weeks, but can take longer. 

Sowing period: Whole year
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: 10 degrees Celsius