Family: Moraceae
Scientific name: Ficus benghalensis
Common name: Indian Banyan
Origin: India

This climber plant from India can reach enormous sizes by climbing other trees, strangling them and then take their spot for itself.
The species starts as an epiphyte and produces aerial roots that (as they hit the ground) further develop into woody stems. It is the national tree of India, of which the largest one is in the southeastern state of Andhra Pradesh, the Thimmamma Marri Manu. This is in terms of area (19.107 m2) and girth (846 m) the largest tree in the world.
The species can also be kept as a houseplant, where its size can be limited by pruning it regularly.

Sowing description: Sow the tiny seeds on the surface of sowing mix and do not cover them with soil. Keep the soil constantly moist and let them germinate at 25 degC on a bright spot.

Sowing time: Whole year
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: 12 degrees Celcius