How Tall Are Ficus Hedges in Southern California?

Ideal Conditions

• Ideal conditions for weeping fig are wide ranging. The plants are tolerant of everything from light shade to full sun, but do best in full sun. They are equally adaptable to a variety of soil conditions, from acidic to alkaline. Once established, weeping fig is also drought tolerant and somewhat tolerant of salt spray typical of near-shore locations. Because they are evergreen and "weep" down to ground level, they out-compete most weeds. The leaf density makes them successful as hedges, but their tendency to grow extremely large means that regular clipping is a necessity.

Ficus Liabilities

• A Southern California ficus can grow tall, but can also be decimated by ficus whitefly (Singhiella simplex). The tiny pests destroy foliage rapidly, leaving nothing but bare branches in the case of major infestation. The damage can also stunt growth. Products are available to treat whitefly infestation, but the price may be high for very long or tall hedges. Strong surface roots can lift nearby pavers and aerial roots may droop to the ground and give birth to additional plants. The latter can be controlled by the tight clipping required for hedges in suburban or urban areas.

Ficus Alternatives

• For Southern California gardeners searching for a dense shrub to substitute for ficus, alternatives include fire bush or scarlet bush (Hamelia patens), hardy in USDA zones 9 and 10. Within its hardiness range, the shrub can grow 10 to 15 feet tall, producing red flowers year round. It can be trimmed to specific shapes and sizes. Another evergreen substitute for ficus is barometer bush (Leucophyllum frutescens), hardy in USDA zones 8 through 10. The plants grow 5 to 8 feet tall, with silver-gray leaves that are amenable to clipping. Purple flowers appear in spring, triggered by spring rains.

Ficus Hedge Considerations

• All ficus contain sap that can irritate skin on contact, so handle plants with care, especially when pruning. Foliage and other parts can also cause stomach distress if they are ingested. When considering whether to select weeping fig for a hedge, think about the time and/or expense needed to maintain a plant that can become extremely tall and unwieldy if untended. If the plants get out of hand and grow taller than local ordinances allow, gardeners may also incur penalties.