The Rock or Native Fig is a spreading shrub or tree up to 8 m in height with smooth pale grey bark, and found growing on or near rock. Usually a tree of the tropic, this species has adapted to dry conditions and are found in gorges and other sheltered areas. The roots of the figs can penetrate half a kilometre into rock crevices in search of moisture. The broad, evergreen leaves have a skin which is glossy on one side, to reflect the sun's heat, and thick, to cut down water loss by evaporation.

This species consists of plants with various hair types and was previously described under F. platypoda and F. obliqua. Those plants found growing in the arid areas of its range tend to have leaves that are smaller, narrower, thicker and more leathery.
 

Figs in Central Australia provide home for up to 14 species of land snails, an animal not commonly seen in the desert. Although Native Figs survive fires and regrow from existing roots, snails are not so lucky, and are killed by the fires. As such, it may take hundreds of years to recolonise a burnt fig, even from nearby figs.