Ficus petiolaris, more commonly known as the rock fig, blue Mexican fig, or lava fig, is a very unique tree in the Moraceae family originating in Mexico. This tree has two very distinct characteristics; the first is its green velvety leaves with purplish pink inter venial veins. The other distinguishing characteristic is its ability to grow around and through rocks in search of water and soil. The rock fig, like the other Ficus trees, excretes a milky white sap when broken, cut or injured. This sap, when exposed to light and skin can cause a red irritation on the surface of the skin. It has been reported that constant/ frequent exposure to the sap can cause problems with breathing, coughing and itchy eyes.
