Care Guides• Tropical Plants

Ficus Triangularis: Care, Growth & Propagation Guide

December 31, 2022
A green and white ficus triangularis plant

I think just about everybody wants a ficus. They are beautiful, have glossy foliage and look super chic, but are not the easiest plants to care for. Most ficus species are overly fussy and too picky, especially for the new plant parent. If you love this genus of plants but don’t want to commit to extreme plant parenthood, try a Ficus triangularis.

If you’re looking to dip your toes into the finicky, ficus waters, the Ficus triangularis is a great start. It is a charming species of ficus that is significantly easier to keep alive than other species, such as the Fiddle Leaf Fig. Keep reading to learn how to provide top notch Ficus triangularis care!

The Ficus triangularis is a stunning species native to South Africa that boasts bright green waxy leaves in the shape of, you guessed it, a triangle. These uniquely shaped leaves grow on sturdy, woody stems that reach upwards and branch out into long arms. This plant can be kept small and pruned into a pleasing shape or left to grow large and bushy, either indoors or out (if you live in the right environment!).

The simplest advice I can give you is that consistency is key when it comes to Ficus triangularis care! Once you have found a place in your house and a routine that it likes, do not change ANYTHING. With that said, let’s jump in!

Quick Facts

An small potted tree with green and white triangular leaves
  • Common Name: Triangle Ficus
  • Scientific Name: Ficus triangularis
  • Mature Size: 4 feet to 8 feet tall and 4 feet wide
  • Sunlight: bright, indirect light exposure for the majority of the day
  • Water: when top ⅓ to ½ of soil is dry to touch
  • Soil: well-draining soil
  • Temperature: a consistent 60°F-75°F
  • Propagation: stem cuttings
  • Hardiness Zone: 12-13
  • Toxicity: toxic to humans and pets

Growth Patterns and Habits

To better provide Ficus triangularis care, it is important to understand its characteristics and how it grows. The Ficus triangularis is a slow growing, and rather uncommon, member of the ficus genus. It can take up to ten years to reach a mature height of eight feet tall and four feet wide.

As its name implies, this plant has triangular leaves that grow from branching, woody stems. If left to its own devices, a Ficus triangularis will grow into a magnificent bush. It can, however, be pruned and trimmed to maintain an upright, tree-like shape.

A small, newly propagated ficus triangularis in a pot