The Curtain Fig Cycle
![](curtin%20fig%20cycle_w.jpg)
A seed is deposited in the host tree's crown in
bird, possum,
tree
kangaroo or rat droppings.
The seed germinates and its first root begins to descend to the soil.
![](curtin%20fig%20cycle2_w.jpg)
Enriched by the soil, the fig develops aerial roots which
encircle
and eventually strangles the host tree.
![](curtin%20fig%20cycle3_w.jpg)
This stage is unique in the development of the Curtain Fig
Tree.
The host tree falls into a neighbouring tree and vertical fig roots descend
from its leaning trunk to form the curtain like appearance.
![](curtin%20fig%20cycle4_w.jpg)
Eventually the host tree rots away leaving the free standing
Fig Tree.
Return to
Curtain Fig Tree Page
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