Ficus Deltoidea
Often called the Mistletoe Fig or the "Gold Coin Plant," Ficus deltoidea is a slow-growing evergreen shrub native to the rainforests of Southeast Asia. Unlike many of its giant Ficus cousins, this variety remains compact and charming, making it a favorite for indoor gardeners who want the look of a miniature tree without the massive footprint. In many cultures, it is kept as a "lucky" plant, believed to bring prosperity to the household.
In Malaysia, the plant is known as Mas Cotek. It is a prominent fixture in traditional herbal medicine, where the leaves are dried and brewed into a tea believed to improve blood circulation and help women recover after childbirth.
| Color | Green |
| Soil Ph | 6.5-7.5 |
| Humidity | Normal |
| Lighting | Part Sun |
| Toxicity | Non-Toxic |
| Soil Type | Well-Draining, Soft And Rich |
| Bloom Time | Spring (Sometimes Summer) |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Plant Type | Large Evergreen Shrub |
| Mature Size | 6 – 12 Feet |
| Native Area | Southeast Asia |
| Temperature | 16°C - 27°C |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun To Partial Shade |
| Hardiness Zones | 10-11 |
To grow Ficus deltoidea, also known as the "Mistletoe Fig" or "Mas Cotek" plant, you can follow these steps:


To fertilize Ficus Deltoidea, use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season and reduce to once a month during winter. Dilute the fertilizer with water according to the instructions on the label and apply it to the soil around the plant, avoiding the leaves.
For optimal growth of the plant referred to, it is recommended to use a well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. The soil should have a pH level that ranges from slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 6 and 7.5. The soil should also retain moisture while allowing excess water to drain away easily. It is recommended to avoid using heavy clay soils that may retain too much water, as this can lead to root rot. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite can be used to create a suitable soil mix. This ensures that the soil is rich in organic matter and provides good drainage. Additionally, this plant requires good aeration for optimal growth and health, so ensure the soil is not too compacted. Finally, it is important to provide adequate fertilization to the soil on which the plant grows, to help the plant thrive in its environment.
To propagate this plant, you will need to take a cutting of the stem around 6-8 inches in length. Make sure to cut just below the node where the leaves meet the stem. Remove the lower leaves, leaving two or three at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder and plant it into a pot filled with moist, well-draining soil. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse effect and place it in bright but indirect light. Water the plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot. After a few weeks, the cutting should start to develop roots. Once the roots have established, you can remove the plastic bag and gradually expose the plant to more light.
Explore plants with similar care requirements