Port Jackson Fig

The Port Jackson Fig, also known as the Little-leaf Fig or the Rusty Fig, is a native of eastern Australia.

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It is slow growing, reaching 7-15 m in height when mature. In most ways its appearance is that of a small version of its relative the Moreton Bay Fig, the Port Jackson being generally smaller, with smaller fruit and leaves. Having similar ranges in the wild they are often confused, the rusty colour of the undersides of the leaves of the Port Jackson Fig being the easiest distinguishing feature.

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Like most figs it requires pollination by a particular wasp species to set seed, but is also easily propagated by cuttings.

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In tropical climates, the 'air roots' from the lower branches of the Port Jackson Fig strike root when they reach to the ground, forming secondary root systems. This process is known as banyaning after the banyan tree of which it is a characteristic.

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It is pollinated by a symbiotic relationship with a wasp species (Blastophaga spp.) The pregnant female wasp enters the unripe fig through a tiny hole at the base. She crawls around the inflorescenced interior of the fig, pollinating the fruit. She then lays her eggs inside some of the flowers and dies. The male wasps hatch, impregnate the female wasps and then die. The female wasps, coated in pollen, leave the fig to lay their eggs in another fig.

Related Topics:
Symbiotic - Inflorescence

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