strangling fig A fig tree that germinates high in a host tree and sends roots to the ground which eventually anastomose and, as they grow, envelop and kill the supporting tree. The banyans differ in having roots descending from the limbs as well so that a grove of closely growing, stout roots develops.

strangling fig A fig tree that germinates high in a host tree and sends roots to the ground which eventually anastomose (see anastomosis) and, as they grow, envelop and kill the supporting tree. The banyans differ in having roots descending from the limbs as well, so that a grove of closely growing, stout roots develops.