The Sandpaper fig is aptly named for the sandpaper feel on the upper leaf surface, as a result of scabrid hairs which can be seen with the naked eye. The leaf undersurface however is soft hairy, with the exception of major nerves. F. opposita is one of the most versatile figs I know of in FNQ. It occurs in both dry and wet environments and is also frequently seen in urban areas. By fig standards, the sandpaper fig is quite unusual because of it’s opposite leaves, although the leaves can also be alternate on the same individual. Few other figs do this. I am waiting to cut a fig open to see what is inside. More on that when that happens.
Leaf Whispering in the Tropics 