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Characteristics of Mistletoe Fig Tree (Ficus deltoidea) in the Wild

Published by: Admin on March 18, 2022
Categorized in: Fruit Tree

Mistletoe fig or Tabat barito (Ficus deltoidea) is a species of tree in the family Moraceae, native to Southeast Asia, and widely naturalized in other parts of the world.

In the UK, this plant received an Award from the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.

BENEFITS OF MISTLETOE FIG

Mistletoe fig has been used in traditional medicine in the eastern part of Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo, where the leaves, fruit, stem, and roots are believed to have healing properties for lung disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, skin problems, aphrodisiac, and treat irregular menstruation. It is also efficacious for the treatment of postpartum depression.

This tree has been commercialized worldwide as an ornamental tree and is used as an ingredient in herbal drinks, supplement drinks, and massage oils.

In Mindanao, Philippines, it is known that the Mistletoe fig has been used by traditional medical practitioners in this region.

Characteristics of Mistletoe Fig Leaf

Ficus deltoidea Leaf — Source: inaturalist.org/pizzamurderer

The leaves are thick, deltoid-shaped, rounded at the apex, and tapering at the base. The upper surface of the leaves is dark green, while the lower surface is yellowish with black spots.

The male and female leaves are physically different, the female leaves are larger and rounder, while the male leaves are smaller, rounder, and elongated.

Characteristics of Mistletoe Fig

Ficus deltoidea Fruit — Source: inaturalist.org/pizzamurderer

The fruit is berry-like and small like most Ficus species.

Characteristics of Mistletoe Fig Tree

Ficus deltoidea Tree — Source: inaturalist.org/weihsien

Mistletoe fig can grow as a shrub or small tree up to 2 meters high. The tree can grow on the ground, on rocks, or between rocks, and/or attached to other trees as (epiphytes).

This plant grows wild in the eastern peninsula of Malaysia, Sumatra, Java, and Kalimantan.