Ficus is a genus of about 850 species of woody trees, shrubs, vines, epiphytes, and hemiepiphytes in the family Moraceae. They are collectively known as fig trees or figs and are widely distributed throughout the tropics with a few species extending into the semi-warm temperate zone.

Fig fruits are extremely important food resources for wildlife. Locals also use these fruits as bush-food because of which they are economically important as well. Figs are of considerable cultural importance throughout the tropics as objects of worship and for medicinal uses. Ficus is a pan-tropical genus occupying a wide variety of ecological niches; most are evergreen, but some deciduous species can also be found outside the tropics and higher elevations.

 

Figs are considered a keystone species in many tropical forest ecosystems. Ficus benghalensis is native to the Indian subcontinent. Specimens in India are among the largest trees in the world based on the canopy coverage. It is considered sacred in India and temples are often built underneath the tree. It provides useful shade in hot climates because of its large canopy coverage.