The original Banyan tree is Ficus benghalensis and native to India. The name Banyan refers to banyans, or traders, who commonly sold their merchandise under a Banyan tree in India. Typical leaves on a Banyan are glossy green, large, and elliptical in shape. Banyan trees have a unique root system consisting of both shallow, spreading subterranean roots and aerial “prop” roots that hang from the branches.

The first image at Fullerton Botanical Garden shows only banyan tree trunks, where the tree has not fully matured. The other photos are of a mature banyan tree in India.

Banyan Tree Trunks

Old Banyan Tree

Roots of a Banyan Tree