During this month's challenge, I find myself back in Michoacán, my fatherland. A common ornamental tree in this country is the one shown above. It has glossy green leaves and a smooth grey trunk. The trunk is usually painted with lime up to one meter high to prevent leaf cutter ants from climbing it and stripping the foliage.
I always assumed this tree was native to here. The locals call them "truenos" or Laurel de Indias. It is said that my great grandfather brought the first one of these trees to this village and planted it in the little plaza. Although this tree was cut down about 2 decades ago, the plaza is still known as "La Plaza del Arbolito".
I've always wanted to cultivate a bonsai version of one of these trees. With a bit of research, I discovered what species it is: Ficus microcarpa!
This is actually already a very popular tree in the world of bonsai! Finally, a chance to work with a specimen in which there are already existing literature and examples.
These trees can grow quite large.
They have a dense canopy which gives much shade. These trees are actually native to Asia, and in those warmer and more humid parts, they grow much larger. They also bear small fruits.
Right now is the prime season for these fruits! I would not eat them (although I am curious) but in the east they are considered medicinal. Every time the wind blows, a few yellow or orangish fruits drop. To make sure I collect viable seeds, I picked up the most ripe fruit I could find.
Here is the fig-like fruit next to a penny-sized coin for reference. It is now dry. I will be taking it back with me.
Although this species is invasive in North America, it actually became an important food source for birds in urban areas.
In more humid areas like in it's natural range, F. microcarpa grows much wider in the banyan style. These pictures are from 13 years ago when I visited Hawaii, where this species is also invasive.
In these favorable conditions, it also forms aerial roots, which come down from the branches. They grow thicker and thicker until eventually uniting with the trunk.
Two of the biggest specimens of F. microcarpa in the world are located in Hawaii.
With a bit of luck, I'll be able to successfully germinate a few seedlings and the real journey will begin.
Until next time!