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 rubiginosa, commonly known as the Rusty Fig or Port Jackson Fig, is an evergreen tree native to eastern Australia that begins its life as a seedling that grows on other plants (hemi-epiphyte) or rocks (lithophyte) but matures into a tree 30 m high and almost as wide with a yellow-brown buttressed trunk. It weathers coastal conditions with ease, is drought tolerant, makes a wonderful shade tree, hedge or screen and will even grow in heavy clay soil and high wind climates. The fruits are small, round, and yellow, and can ripen and turn red at any time of year, peaking in spring and summer. Many species of birds are attracted to the fruit. Ranging along the Australian east coast from Queensland to Bega in southern New South Wales, including the Port Jackson area, leading to its alternative name, Ficus rubiginosa grows in rainforest margins and rocky outcrops. It is used as a shade tree in large gardens, parks and public spaces, and when potted is well-suited for use as an indoor plant or in the art of bonsai. Despite the relatively large size of the leaves, it is popular for bonsai work as it is highly forgiving to work with and hard to kill; the leaves reduce readily by leaf-pruning in early summer. Described as the best tree for a beginner to work with, it is one of the most frequently used. They can live to 100 years or more and have been known to resprout after bushfire and will benefit from Smoke Primer treatment. It usually bears fruit within three years.