Namaqua rock fig

Namaqua rock fig (Ficus cordata): This tree grows from 8 to 12m high and scattered populations grow in dry and mountainous areas of the country, usually on hill slopes, gorges, kloofs or near springs. The distribution range is varied and includes Otavi, Grootfontein and Tsumeb region, Epupa Falls, Kaokoland, Damaraland, Windhoek, Okahandja, south into the Namib Desert as far as the Fish River Canyon and central Orange River areas.

The bark is pale grey, older branches change to pale brown with yellow hairs, whilst younger branchlets are yellow with white hairs. Leaves are dark green. Figs grow at the end of the branches and are a yellow-green colour when ripe, which is mainly from August to October and from April to May.

Insects are attracted to the leaves and fruit. Unfortunately infestation is rife, although this doesn't stop livestock and birds eating them. The bark is used for tanning leather in north-western Namibia