Here are some examples of prop roots which certain species of ficus produce:
Very beautiful.
http://www.treedictionary.com/DICT20...oproots-1.html

Also see "roots" at www.treedictionary.com

Sincerely,
John A. Keslick, Jr.
Arborist
http://home.ccil.org/~treeman
and www.treedictionary.com
Beware of so-called tree experts who do not understand tree biology.
Storms, fires, floods, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions keep reminding us
that we are not the boss.

wrote in message
oups.com...
I have a ficus tree that is otherwise very happy where it is outside
and has thrived for at least 8 years. The plant appears to be very
happy and has minimal dropping of leaves. Moreover, it is full and
lush and green. However, recently I have notices stingy shoots or
roots growing from the branches and hanging down like the kind of baby
roots you would find if you stuck a clipping in a glass of water to
propagate it. Admittedly, I live in Austin, TX where it has been
raining quite a bit over the last 3 weeks, more rain than we've had in
a number of years. Again the plant seems to be very happy otherwise,
but these new roots/shoots are rather odd. Does anyone know or have
any idea what's going on with this plant. I have to add that I have
never kept a ficus alive for more than a few years so this definitely
a first for me and I am concerned that the tree has picked up some
kind of plant parasite or disease even though the leaves, branches and
soil seem to be extremely healthy.