What is ficus cordata?

Ficus cordata, commonly known as the heart-leaved fig or African fig, is a species of flowering plant in the family Moraceae. It is native to Africa and Madagascar, but has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including India.

The plant is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 7 meters tall. Its leaves are heart-shaped, leathery, and dark green in color, with a glossy sheen. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers that develop into small, round figs that are edible.

Ficus cordata is a popular ornamental plant, often cultivated in gardens and as a houseplant. It is known for its air-purifying abilities and is said to be able to remove pollutants from the environment. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive problems and respiratory infections.

In some areas, Ficus cordata is considered an invasive species and has been known to grow aggressively, displacing native plants. Therefore, it is important to plant it in areas where it will not cause harm to the local ecosystem.