Indian Laurel Ficus Tree

Plant Type: Evergreen Shade Tree
Plant Height: 25-40 feet (can reach larger sizes in ideal conditions)
Spread: 20-30 feet (dense canopy)
Flower Color: Inconspicuous (grown for foliage, not flowers)
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial shade

Indian Laurel Fig: Dense Shade and Evergreen Privacy

The Indian Laurel Fig (Ficus nitida), also commonly called the Ficus nitida tree, is a fast-growing evergreen shade tree widely used in Arizona landscapes for its dense, lush canopy and reliable performance. Known for its glossy green leaves and tolerance to pruning, this tree is often shaped into stately shade trees or clipped into formal hedges and screens. Its ability to thrive in heat and sun makes it one of the most popular large evergreen trees for residential and commercial use in the Phoenix Valley.

Key Features of Indian Laurel Fig

• Dense Evergreen Canopy: Provides year-round shade and excellent screening.
• Fast Growing: Quickly establishes and fills out, ideal for new landscapes.
• Pruning Versatility: Can be shaped into a formal tree, hedge, or privacy screen.
• Heat Tolerant: Thrives in full Arizona sun once established.

Growing and Care Tips

• Soil: Prefers well-drained soils; tolerates a wide range of conditions.
• Water: Moderate water during establishment; low to moderate needs once mature.
• Pruning: Responds well to shaping; prune in cooler months to avoid stress.
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to about 25–30°F; may show damage below freezing but typically recovers.

Landscaping Uses

• Shade Tree: Provides dense, reliable shade for yards, patios, and parking lots.
• Privacy Screen: Excellent choice for tall hedges or sound barriers.
• Formal Landscapes: Can be clipped into neat, uniform shapes.
• Large Properties: Works best where its mature size can be accommodated.

Summary

The Indian Laurel Fig is a classic Arizona shade tree, offering evergreen coverage, rapid growth, and versatility in landscape design. Whether grown as a single specimen tree or clipped into a hedge, it delivers reliable shade and privacy with year-round greenery.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):

Indian Laurel Fig Planting Guide

Location: Full sun to partial shade; thrives in bright desert conditions.
Soil: Well-drained; amend with compost in compacted or clay-heavy soils.
Spacing: Plant 20-30 feet apart for trees; 6-8 feet apart for hedges/screens.
Planting Depth: Place root ball level with surrounding soil; firm lightly.
Support: Stake young trees for the first year to promote upright growth.

Watering Guide

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Deeply water immediately after planting.
• Frequency: Every 2-3 days for the first 2 weeks, then weekly for 2-3 months.
• Amount: Provide 10-15 gallons per watering for young trees.

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: 9-12 months in Arizona’s climate.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 10-14 days; weekly during extreme heat for best canopy health.

• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks if rainfall is lacking.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: 18-24 inches from trunk, expanding outward as canopy grows.
• Flow Rate: 2-4 gallons per hour emitters recommended.
• Number of Emitters: 3-5 per tree, increasing as roots spread.
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase watering in summer and dry spells; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Indian Laurel Fig

• Soil Check: Water when top 3-4 inches of soil are dry.
• Encourage Dense Growth: Regular deep watering supports thick, lush foliage.
• Avoid Overwatering: Excessive moisture can stress roots.
• Mulch: Apply gravel or organic mulch around the base to conserve moisture and insulate roots.

⚠️ Note for Customers: Indian Laurel Ficus is a powerful grower with aggressive roots. It should be planted away from foundations, walls, and pools to prevent structural issues. It performs best with regular pruning to control size and maintain shape.