Moreton Bay fig

Moreton Bay fig is a unique tree that starts life growing up the side of another tall tree, then eventually completely takes over the host tree especially pōhutukawa and phoenix palms.

Description

• Large free standing tree growing up to 30 metres tall.

• Leaves are large < 29 x 12 cm, dark green and glossy.

• Fruit is purple and fleshy, appearing in autumn.

• Roots are large and buttress.

• Seeds are dispersed by birds and mammals.

• Habitats include epiphytic on native and exotic tree species, and rock walls.

What you need to know

Moreton Bay fig competes with, shades and strangles native plants. Copious year-round fruiting may restructure fruit eating animal communities and support elevated populations of vertebrate pests.

Management approach

Moreton Bay fig is declared an unwanted organism by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) because it is capable of causing harm to the natural environment, physical resources or human health in Aotearoa/New Zealand.

These species pose a high risk to our environment, economy, recreation, and cultural values.

Rules

Any species declared a pest, including unwanted organisms, cannot be sold or be in a place where plants are being sold. Pest plants cannot be propagated, bred, or multiplied, communicated, released, or cause to be released, or otherwise spread.

Control

Do not attempt to undertake control of Moreton Bay fig yourself. Report any sightings to us.