An evergreen tree or shrub belonging to the fig family, often kept as a houseplant in Hungary due to its airy habit and glossy foliage. Although it rarely exceeds 2 meters in height in Hungary, in its natural environment in Southeast Asia it can grow up to 30 meters tall. Its glossy, oval leaves with smooth edges are dark green, but there are also white-variegated varieties. Its red fruits, somewhat reminiscent of cherries, are edible, although they are rarely found in our climate. Other parts of the plant are poisonous, especially to dogs and cats.
Care
It is a light-demanding ornamental plant, but it cannot tolerate prolonged direct sunlight. It is a relatively undemanding shrub, but it is important to know that it requires constant conditions and responds to changes in location, over- and under-watering, too little light, and drafts by shedding its leaves. It has moderate water requirements, but in constantly moist soil, the plant's root system can easily start to rot, so always wait until the soil has dried out somewhat between waterings. During the winter, it can survive with less water. If its leaves start to turn yellow, it is likely that it is not getting enough water. It is relatively resistant to disease, but can occasionally be attacked by spider mites and mealybugs.
Propagation
By semi-woody or leaf cuttings.
