Ficus ‘Ruth Bancroft’

Ruth Bancroft fig is an unusual and exciting cross between the creeping Ficus pumila and a larger edible fig. It was found at the famous ‘Ruth Bancroft Gardens’ and named in her honor by Plantsman , Sean Hogan. It has a horizontal, rambling , twining habit , weaving in front of and between shrubs. Rarely reaches heights over 6’. The sweet mitten shaped leaves make for an interesting and unusual specimen that looks great draping off a wall or weaving among larger trees and shrubs. Happy in a sunny- partly sunny spot with regular moisture, but drought tolerant once established. Itty bitty figs, about the diameter of a belly button that can be dried for edible use. Evergreen, but may lose leaves if temps dip below 15 degrees. Zone 7b-9

The Ruth Bancroft gardens are recognized as one of the best examples of a beautiful Xeric garden in America. Ruth Bancroft passed in 2017 at the age of 109! Her gardens live on. If you’d like to learn more about The Ruth Bancroft Gardens here’s a book you may enjoy.