Ficus Benghalensis, Indian Banyan, Vat Vriksha - 0.5 kg Seeds

The Indian Banyan (Ficus benghalensis), the Vat Vriksha and national tree of India, is a vast, long-lived evergreen fig that spreads by dropping aerial roots which thicken into accessory trunks, so a single tree can shade a small grove. Its massive, dome-shaped canopy and milky latex have made it a sacred and culturally central tree across the subcontinent.

Found throughout the plains and lower hills of India in temples, village commons and along old roads, it tolerates a wide range of soils and considerable drought once established. Beyond shade and avenue use it is valued in Ayurveda, where its bark, aerial-root tips and latex are used medicinally, and its tiny figs feed birds, bats and butterflies.

• Family: Moraceae
• Native region: Indian subcontinent
• Mature height: 20–25 m (canopy spreads very wide)
• Growth rate: moderate to fast

The seeds are minute and best sown fresh; surface-sow them onto a moist, sterile mix of fine soil and sand and do not cover, as they require light to germinate. Keep the medium consistently damp and warm (25–32 °C) under bright, indirect light, misting gently; germination is often erratic, taking around 21–30 days. Prick the delicate seedlings into small pots once they can be handled and grow on in part shade before potting up.