Ficus is a pan-tropical genus of about 850 species of woody trees, shrubs, vines, epiphytes and hemiepiphytes 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 burtt-davyi commonly known as Burtt Davy’s Fig, Scrambling Fig and Veld Fig in English and Hotnotstou, Hottentotstou, Rooitou, Veldvy and Veldwildevy in Afrikaans will produce small green figs that turn dark red. Aerial roots form quite easily on this species. It grows slowly and is a great bonsai subject. It is indigenous to South Africa with a provincial distribution which stretches from the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape, northwards to KwaZulu-Natal. It also grows in Mozambique. In its epiphytic form this species starts its life in the forks of tree branches or in rock crevices, where an accumulation of organic debris aids germination and initial development. It sends down long, thin roots to reach soil and water below. The roots thicken and grow in number with the passage of time, and can eventually enclose the supporting tree, strangling and killing it, leaving the fig to stand alone with no competition for resources. Growing without support the stems may reach 1m in diameter, and up to 20m in height, with a dense canopy and making an excellent shade tree. Bark is thin, smooth, grey and fibrous, and is much used by indigenous tribes as rough cordage. Branchlets are covered with minute, soft, erect hairs. Its tolerance of drought conditions makes it a favourite species among bonsai growers.