Ficus is a pan-tropical genus of about 850 species of woody trees, shrubs, vines, epiphytes and hemi-epiphytes in the family Moraceae. Ficus occupies a wide variety of ecological niches; most are evergreen, but some deciduous species are endemic to areas outside of the tropics and to higher elevations. Fig species are characterized by their unique inflorescence and distinctive pollination syndrome, which utilizes wasp species belonging to the Agaonidae family for pollination. The fruit of most species are edible though they are usually of only local economic importance or eaten as bushfood. However, they are extremely important food resources for wildlife. Figs are also of considerable cultural importance throughout the tropics, both as objects of worship and for their many practical uses.

Ficus rumphii, commonly known as Golden Rumph’s Fig, is a banyan type fig that can be found in India, southern China, Indo-China and Malaysia. It is a deciduous tree that can grow to a height of 20 metres. The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as food and medicine. The tree is often cultivated as an ornamental and shade tree along avenues. The fully ripe fruits and young leaves are eaten raw or cooked.