| Bo Tree | |
| Ficus religiosa | |
| a.k.a. Sacred Fig, Bodhi Tree |
A sacred tree to Buddhists and Hindus, this member of the fig family is a distinctive and attractive ornamental. A place of meditation for both Hindus and Buddhists, in Buddhist history, it was under this tree that Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment.
Description: A semi-evergreen growing to 50-90ft. The leaves are quite distinctive, somewhat heart shaped, with a noticeable extended tip. The plant is extremely long-lived, with earliest known specimens dating over 2200 years old, making it the longest known living angiosperm.
Hardiness: Hardy to about 32F, possibly a bit lower.
Growing Environment: Adaptable to a number of environments, so long as the climate is reasonably warm year-round. Will stand cool temperatures and brief frosts. Grows in full sun or filtered sun. Water moderately, plant in well-drained soil.
Propagation: By cuttings, air layers and seeds. Cuttings and air layers are the only means of propagating the absolute specific tree (DNA wise) Buddha once sat under.
Uses: Planted as an ornamental, both for its attractive beauty and its religious signifigance.
Native Range: Native to southeast Asia, from India and Sri Lanka, through Nepal, China and Vietnam.