Giant Ficus tree (strangler fig) on Parque Alameda de Apodaca, Named for their unique growth process, strangler fig seed germinate in the canopy of a host tree where they grow and tap in to the sap system. They then produce aerial roots that develop ground wards over a long period. Once their roots reach the ground they grow quickly, eventually enveloping and “strangling” their host to stand independently. Some specimens soar to heights of 60 meters, with sprawling crowns sometimes spanning more than 70.