STANDARD / Ficus microcarpa hillii 'Flash'

Ficus Flash / Hills Fig / Hill's Weeping Fig

Botanical Name: Ficus microcarpa hillii 'Flash' (standard)
Family: Moraceae
Origin: Eastern Australia (NSW/QLD)
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub (grafted standard)

Overview

Ficus microcarpa hillii ‘Flash’ standard gives instant, glossy architecture on a clean trunk—perfect for Adelaide courtyards, entries and streetside containers. Dense, bright new growth matures to deep green and clips beautifully into tight lollipop or cloud forms. Hardy in heat and coastal winds once established; flowers are inconspicuous (figs may occur only occasionally).

Key Features

• Mature Size: 2–4 m H (incl. stem) × 1–2.5 m W (canopy) depending on stem/graft height and pruning
• Growth Rate: 30-60 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Bold, glossy, bright-green new leaves maturing deep green; dense, easily clipped canopy
• Flowers: Inconspicuous (inside figs); occasional small figs in warm seasons
• Seasonal Interest: Year-round evergreen structure with freshest lime tips in spring–summer
• Wildlife Value: Shelter for small birds; figs (if produced) may feed urban wildlife
• Tolerance: Heat-, wind- and coastal-tolerant; light frost tolerant (protect from hard frost); drought-tolerant once established; avoid waterlogging
• Planting Density: Avenue/specimen standards: space 1.8–2.5 m apart (or 1 per large pot 45–60 cm+)
• Pet Friendly: No — milky sap may irritate skin; ingestion can upset pets

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to light part shade (bright light gives tight growth)
• Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or improved clay loam; avoid chronically wet sites; keep at least 1–1.5 m from services/paving in-ground
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer (more in heatwaves); rarely in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Clip lightly 3–6×/yr to maintain shape (don’t cut into bare old wood); mulch in spring; slow-release feed in early spring; wipe dusty leaves on pot specimens
• Lifespan: 20–40+ years
• Climate Zones: Suited to metro/coastal SA; provide frost protection in colder Hills pockets
• Soil pH: Slightly acid to mildly alkaline

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Formal pairs flanking gates, paths and entries; superb as statement pot standards
• Avenue along fences/driveways for crisp, modern rhythm
• Topiary centrepiece for courtyards; underplant with Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’ or blue chalk sticks for contrast

Why You Will Love It

All the glossy designer look with very little fuss—tight, evergreen canopy that clips neatly and loves Adelaide heat. Perfect for pots or formal avenues, it delivers instant structure and premium street appeal year-round.