Plant File

Climbers + Ground Cover

Creeping Fig

Creeping fig (Ficus pumila) is one of those plants that doesn’t demand attention—but earns it over time. With its small, heart-shaped leaves and determined climbing habit, creeping fig has the rare ability to turn plain surfaces into living architecture. It’s both decorative and practical, making it a favourite for gardeners and designers alike.

Creeping fig is best known as a climbing or trailing plant. It excels at covering walls, fences, trellises, and even unsightly concrete, softening harsh lines with a lush green texture. Indoors, it works beautifully as a trailing plant in hanging baskets or trained along shelves and frames. Outdoors, it’s often used as a ground cover or vertical green screen for privacy, insulation and visual interest.

Beyond aesthetics, creeping fig can help cool buildings by shading walls, reduce glare, and even protect surfaces from weather exposure when well-maintained. It prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. It tolerates a range of soil types but dislikes soggy roots.  Outdoors, it handles full sun in mild climates and partial shade in hotter regions. Humidity encourages lush growth, making it especially happy in coastal or indoor environments.

The key to using creeping fig well is guidance and pruning. Left unchecked, it can cling aggressively and grow into cracks or unwanted areas. Train young plants along desired paths using wire, trellises, or frames, and prune regularly to keep growth tidy and intentional. For walls, plant it slightly away from the base to allow airflow and prevent moisture buildup. Indoors, rotate pots occasionally for even growth and trim runners to maintain a compact shape.

Creeping Fig Covering Brick Wall ( Photo Harrison Landscapes)