Creeping Fig Growth Rate

Growth Rate

• The creeping fig -- a member of the same family as the edible figs -- is an extremely fast-growing vine. When conditions are right, the vine will average between 9 and 12 inches of new growth each year. Because the vine is evergreen and thrives in conditions where the growing season is most of the year, this extends the ability of the vine to grow. When the leaves on the new growth of the plant open, they are only about half an inch wide. These leaves continue to grow and reach maturity at about 3 inches long and 2 inches wide.

Structure and Cultivation

• The leaves of the creeping fig change as they mature. Because the vine grows extremely quickly, both juvenile and mature leaves are always on the plant. Young leaves are pale green and become leathery and dark as they age. Pieces of these vines can be cut and potted to grow new plants. Cutting a piece of the vine no more than 4 inches long and placing it in a glass of water will encourage it to quickly develop roots. Moving several of these plants to a small, 3-inch pot filled with potting soil will further encourage root growth. Even these young plants will grow so quickly that they will need to be repotted within the first three months or transferred to their final destination in the yard.

Optimum Conditions

• The creeping fig is a warm-weather vine and is particular about the temperature. Cold weather stunts the vine's growth and frost kills it. For it to achieve the maximum growth rate, plant it in well-fertilized soil in the sun, although it will tolerate the shade at a slower growth rate. Because it is such an aggressive grower, refrain from fertilization to help keep the vine a more manageable size. The vine is extremely drought tolerant once it is established, and continues to grow even through the driest of conditions. Too much water causes leaves to turn yellow, so well-drained soil is a necessity.

Uses

• This fast-growing vine is commonly used in the creation of topiaries, as it can easily be trained to cover a wire frame and will do so in a short amount of time. Since it grows new leaves so quickly, it is extremely tolerant of pruning and will usually require extensive maintenance several times a year to keep it a manageable, attractive shape. It can also be trained to climb up walls and will reach heights of several stories. Because the roots that attach to the structures it climbs will damage wooden buildings, it is usually only recommended for stone or concrete.