Bonsai Sacred Fig/Bo Tree (Ficus Religiosa) 100Seeds

The popular ficus species is the Sacred Fig, Ficus religiosa. The Sacred Fig is found in many parts of the world and it therefore known by many names. In regions were Sinhalese is spoken, the tree is named Bo. In other regions, commonly used names are Pipal, Peepul and Ashwattha. The Ficus religiosa originates from the region from India to southwest China, and from Indochina to Vietnam. The Sacred Fig grows very large; up to 30 meters. The trunk can reach a size of 3 meters in diameter. It is a semi-evergreen or dry season deciduous species.

The Sacred Fig is considered sacred in many parts of Asia since it is hallowed by followers of the Buddhist, Hindu and Jainism religions. Some Muslims will also consider certain Ficus trees sacred. According to legend, Siddhartha Gautama sat under a Sacred Fig when he became enlightened and turned into Buddha. Ascetics and yoga practitioners still like to meditate under Sacred Figs. Two of the most famous Sacred Figs are the Bodhi tree and the Sri Maha Bodhi.