Ficus stricta can reach up to 40 m in height. Crown is large and spreading, branches produce aerial roots. Bark is grey and smooth. Figs are axillary, yellow to orange when mature. This rare strangler fig species was recorded as native to Singapore in 2012, and the first specimen described in Singapore was discovered in Changi. It was only known in Changi and Pulau Ubin and it had previously been botanically uncollected and overlooked and thus was a new record for Singapore.

A strangler fig starts life in the canopy of its host tree. Its aerial roots extend downwards and progressively surround the host's trunk. The fig competes for light with the host by extending its canopy above that of the host tree. The host tree eventually is 'strangled' to death. Ficus stricta is a rare lowland rainforest species. Its figs ripen to a yellow / orange and attract many feeding birds. Oriental Pied Hornbills were seen feeding on the figs. This fig seldom fruits, sometimes not for 6 years or more.