Ficus religiosa or sacred fig is a species of fig native to the Indian subcontinent and Indochina that belongs tothe fig or mulberry family. It is also known as the bodhi tree, pippala tree, peepul tree, peepal tree or ashwattha tree (in India and Nepal). The sacred fig is considered to have a religious significance in three major religions that originated on the Indian subcontinent, Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. Hindu and Jain ascetics consider the tree to be sacred and often meditate under them. This is the tree under which Gautama Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment. The sacred fig is the state tree of the Indian states of Odisha and Haryana.

These plants are sometimes used for bonsai, though they can be grown as a regular full-sized tree. If growing as a Bonsai, we are offering our Bonsai growing instruction booklet as an option with your seeds. It contains full-colour images and detailed information about germinating, growing, pruning and potting your new bonsai! It is the same booklet that is offered in our bonsai kit.

Hardiness zones: 10-12 outdoors, or grow indoors as Bonsai houseplant

Location: Sun or part sun

Uses: Bonsai, or standard garden (non-Bonsai) use

Seeds per pack: 20

Germination: Soak in water, let stand in water for 24 hours. No cold treatment is required. Plant 2-3 seeds in each pot, just under the surface of a seed-start mix. Place the pots in a warm, sunny spot. You should see the first sign of germination within the next few days or weeks, depending on the variety. Generally a 10-60 day range is normal for the first signs of growth. When the seedlings are about 5cm (2") tall, remove any additional plants and leave only the strongest seedling in each pot. The removed seedlings can be planted in a garden or elsewhere if desired.