Evergreen Ivy, Creeping fig plant, Ficus Plumila
The creeping fig plant, also known as Ficus pumila, is a type of evergreen vine that belongs to the Ficus family. It is native to East Asia but has been widely cultivated and naturalized in other parts of the world, including North America.
The creeping fig plant is a small-leaved vine that can climb and cover walls, trellises, and other structures, or it can be used as a ground cover. The leaves are oval or heart-shaped, glossy, and dark green, and they grow in a tight, overlapping pattern. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers and edible fruit that are rarely seen on indoor plants.
The creeping fig plant is a popular houseplant due to its low maintenance requirements and attractive foliage. It can be grown in a variety of light conditions, but it prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. It can also tolerate dry indoor air, although it benefits from occasional misting.
One of the unique features of the creeping fig plant is that it produces aerial roots, which allow it to climb walls and other surfaces. These roots can cause damage to masonry, wood, and other materials, so it's important to keep the plant under control and prune it regularly to prevent it from becoming invasive.
In addition to its ornamental value, the creeping fig plant is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory problems, skin infections, and digestive issues. However, its medicinal properties have not been extensively studied, and it should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.