Description

• Ficus insipida, commonly known as amate, higuerón, or wild fig, is a large evergreen or briefly deciduous tree in the mulberry family (Moraceae). It has a broad crown, smooth greyish bark, and large, simple leaves that are usually oval to elliptic with pointed tips. Its small, rounded figs grow in pairs on the branches and are green when immature, sometimes becoming yellowish as they ripen. The tree produces a milky latex when damaged, and its fruits provide food for birds, bats, and other wildlife.

Range

• Ficus insipida is native to tropical America, ranging from Mexico through Central America into parts of South America. It occurs in many lowland tropical regions and is particularly associated with moist forests and river corridors. It is native to Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• Amate grows in tropical forests, riverine woodland, and other warm habitats with adequate moisture. It is often found along streams and rivers, in forest clearings, and on fertile alluvial soils. The tree can grow very large and provides shade, food, and shelter for wildlife, making it an important component of tropical forest ecosystems.