I came across a beautiful, simple but elegant Tokoname cascade pot recently on craigslist. The pot is 14" tall and 9" square at the top. I had a green island ficus in mind for it, and am pleased with the results. I'm going to start working on reducing leaf size this year.

Here's a closer picture:

I don't know anything about about Green Island Ficus, but in my experience, living in Palm Beach Co. for 5 years, those who choose ficus choose it because it is fast growing. Thus, I'm of the opinion that the same folks who want ficus, despite all the pitfalls, would have no interest in a slower growing form. Just my thoughts.

I've seen aspidistra (cast iron plant) used effectively under very large oaks. There are both solid green and variegated varieties. Another possibility is aucuba japonica. With its yellow variegation, it brightens a shady area. I read that this would do well among tree roots so I planted a small - but well rooted - cutting in an area filled with palm roots. What a trooper it has been! It's now about 2.5 feet high and has added some pizazz to the site. Floridata says its a slow grower that will eventually get to 8-10 ft high, but at the rate mine is growing (admittedly fighting for its share of water and nutrients), keeping it at 2-3 feet would be easy-peasy. June Here is a link that might be useful: Aspidistra