Tickey Creeper

Ficus pumila | Tickey Creeper — Lush Evergreen Climber and Groundcover

Ficus pumila, commonly known as Tickey Creeper or Creeping Fig, is a vigorous, evergreen climber loved for its small, heart-shaped leaves and ability to create dense, living green walls. Fast-growing and adaptable, it clings to surfaces with tiny aerial roots, softening walls, pillars, or fences with a lush, natural look. It also works beautifully as a groundcover or cascading pot plant. Hardy, low-maintenance, and evergreen, Tickey Creeper is a South African garden staple — reliable, resilient, and effortlessly elegant.

🌿 Plant Care

Sun: Full sun to semi-shade — tolerates a range of light conditions; best foliage density in bright light.
Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil; performs well in sandy or loamy mixes with compost.
Water: Moderate — keep evenly moist during establishment; drought tolerant once mature.
Fertilizer: Light feeding in spring and mid-summer with a balanced fertiliser promotes strong growth.
Pruning: Trim regularly to control spread and maintain shape; can be cut back hard if overgrown.
Top tip: Excellent for greening unsightly walls — just give it time and a little support to start climbing.

🌿 Specifications

Botanical name: Ficus pumila
Common name: Tickey Creeper, Creeping Fig
Growth habit: Fast-growing, evergreen climber or groundcover with small, dense foliage
Size: ±3–6 m spread (climbing) × ±15–30 cm H (as groundcover)
Leaves: Small, oval to heart-shaped leaves; juvenile growth delicate and fine-textured
Lifespan: Long-lived; durable and self-renewing with regular pruning
Uses: Wall and fence cover, groundcover, hanging baskets, retaining walls, and pot cascades

⚡ Quick Facts

• Rapid-growing evergreen for walls, fences, or groundcover
• Hardy, easy to maintain, and thrives in sun or shade
• Perfect for creating lush, natural “living walls” in South African gardens