Azalea leaf fig
Ficus maclellandii

Family: Moraceae

What it is like

A fig. It is a tree. It grows 15-20 m tall. The bark is grey and smooth. The branches have lumps on them. The leaves are 8-13 cm long. They have 2 forms. The lower branches have more narrow leaves. The figs are in the axils of leaves. They are purplish red when ripe. They are round and 6-8 mm across.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. It grows in thin forests and near streams. In China it grows between 400-1,200 m above sea level. In Yunnan.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Hawaii, Himalayas, India, Malaysia, Myanmar, Northeastern India, SE Asia, Sikkim, Thailand, Vietnam

How it is used for food

The leaf buds are used as a fresh vegetable or baked then dried and stored.

Edible parts

Leaf buds

How it is grown

It can be grown from cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Du juan ye rong, Pak yi

Synonyms

Ficus maclellandii var. rhododendrifolia (Miq.) Corner; Ficus thorelii Gagnep.; Urostigma rhododendrifolium Miq.;