Sandpaper Fig

This one is from my personal collection.

Sandpaper fig – Ficus coronata, also called creek sandpaper fig, native sandpaper fig

A hardy Australian fig with rough “sandpaper” leaves and small purple-black fruit that birds love and people can eat fresh or turn into jam. Suits Perth once established. Handles wind, coastal air, and pruning. Good for screening and habitat.

Features

• Ideal prune height: 3–5 m

• pH range: 5.5–7.5

• Sun preference: full sun to part shade, sheltered when young

• Minimum pot size by year 5: 75 L tub (bigger is better)

• Time to fruit: 3–5 years from seedling with summer water

• Harvest period: mainly summer to early autumn, often in waves

• Notable traits: drought hardy once established, coastal tolerant, wildlife friendly, edible fruit

Growing conditions and care

Plant in well-drained soil with compost and mulch. Water deeply through the first two summers, then ease off. Protect from hot easterlies when young. Prune after fruiting to shape and keep to size. Roots are strong like most figs—plant away from pipes and paving. In Perth’s heat, a thick mulch and occasional trace minerals keep growth steady and fruit clean.

Why this plant

Tough, useful, and native. Gives shade, screens neighbours, feeds birds, and gives you tangy fruit for nibbling or jam. Easy to keep compact with a yearly prune.

Ready to plant? Add to cart or swing by Parkwood (near Riverton) by appointment. Limited stock.

Keywords: Ficus coronata, sandpaper fig Perth, edible native fig, coastal fruit tree, wildlife habitat, drought tolerant tree, screening tree, WA nursery