Ficus benghalensis, commonly known as the Banyan tree, is a species of fig native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is a large, evergreen tree that is notable for its wide-reaching canopy and aerial prop roots, which often develop into new trunks, allowing the tree to spread horizontally and cover large areas. The Banyan tree holds cultural and spiritual significance in many regions, especially in India.

Key Characteristics of Ficus benghalensis:

1. Appearance:

   • Size: Ficus benghalensis can grow to be a massive tree, reaching up to 30 meters (98 feet) in height, with a wide, expansive canopy. The tree can also spread laterally over large areas through its aerial roots.
   • Leaves: The leaves are large, leathery, and dark green. They are elliptical in shape, and their size can vary from 10 to 25 cm in length.
   • Aerial Roots: One of the most distinctive features of the Banyan tree is its aerial roots, which drop down from the branches and eventually take root in the soil. These roots can form additional trunks, leading to the creation of a large, expansive network of trunks and branches.
   • Fruits: Ficus benghalensis produces small, fig-like fruits that are not typically consumed by humans, but they serve as an important food source for wildlife like birds and bats.

2. Growth Habit:

   • The Banyan tree is considered a "strangling fig", as its aerial roots can eventually envelop and overwhelm other trees, although in some cases, it may coexist peacefully with other plants.
   • The tree can have a vast, spreading canopy that provides significant shade. Its roots create a unique and visually striking appearance, which makes it popular in gardens and as a landmark tree.

Growing Conditions:

1. Light:

   • Ficus benghalensis thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but generally requires direct sunlight for optimal growth. It grows best in areas with ample exposure to sunlight.

2. Watering:

   • This tree prefers regular watering, especially during the warmer months. However, like many fig species, it does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so good drainage is essential.
   • The tree is drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering is needed to maintain its vigor, particularly in hot and dry conditions.

3. Soil:

   • Ficus benghalensis is adaptable to a wide range of soils but prefers well-drained, fertile, loamy soil. It can also grow in clay or sandy soils, as long as there is good drainage.
   • The tree can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (around 6.0 to 7.0), but it does best in slightly acidic to neutral conditions.

4. Temperature:

   • The Banyan tree thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, with temperatures ranging between 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). It does not tolerate frost and can be damaged by temperatures below freezing.
   • It is commonly found in USDA Hardiness Zones 10-11, where the climate is warm year-round.

5. Size :

   • Pot Size : 40 cms
   • Height : 1 mtr