I have a ficus tree and there seems to be a nasty growth/tumor at the base, does anyone know what it is?

Answer 1

From what you've described, it sounds like you have "Crown gall" caused by a bacteria called "Agrobacterium tumefaciens"

To my knowledge, there isn't any cure for this and you can visit the site at the bottom to make sure if this is what your ficus has. I hope I'm wrong but wanted to try and help you with your question.


SYPTOMS:
Slightly swollen areas on the stems, leaf veins and even roots are initially apparent. These swollen areas enlarge and become corky. In cases of severe infection they may enlarge and merge to create a very distorted stem or root mass. Galls may also form on the ends of cuttings or stems where cuttings have been removed.

CONTROL:
Remove and destroy all plants found infected with the bacterium, then sterilize any cutting tools used on them. Since a fungus is also known to cause galls on Ficus, and accurate disease diagnosis must be made

http://www.ubcbotanicalgarden.org/forums/showthread.php?t=4345

Good luck.

-Certified Professional Crop Consultant with over 30 years of experience and a Degree in Plant Science