Q. What is one of the most important trees in S. Florida’s eco-system?

(Mrs. Frothingham, ca. 1890. Credit: Ralph Munroe Collection, Historical Museum of Southern Florida. )

 

This tree is often referred to as a ‘wild banyan’ tree. It is a tree that often kills others in its method of growth. The _____________ has adapted very well to urban environments. It can be found growing on landscape plants (especially palms) all over the city. Amazingly, it finds space in cracks in sidewalks, roofs, chimneys, and even on bridges, freeways and the tracks of Metrorail! It’s assumed that most of Miami would be overgrown by these trees if they weren’t removed.

A. The Strangler Fig