Ficus lyrata aka Fiddle Leaf Fig

Taxonomy ID: 1221

Ficus lyrata, also known as the Fiddle-Leaf Fig or the Banjo Fig, is a tropical evergreen tree known for its large glossy violin-shaped leaves. Commonly grown as a houseplant, it prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil, it purifies the air, and is relatively low maintenance. making it a great addition to any home. It can grow up to 40 feet tall in its natural habitat, but it is commonly kept pruned to a smaller size.

Common names

Fiddle Leaf Fig, Lyre Leaf Figtree, Fiddle Leaf, Fiddleleaf Fig, Banjo Fig

More information about Fiddle Leaf Fig

How difficult is it to take care of Fiddle Leaf Fig

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Fiddle Leaf Fig is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

What is the region of origin of Fiddle Leaf Fig

Fiddle Leaf Fig’s native range is worldwide Tropics.

What are the water needs for Fiddle Leaf Fig

Fiddle Leaf Fig should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

What is the right soil for Fiddle Leaf Fig

Fiddle Leaf Fig loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

What is the sunlight requirement for Fiddle Leaf Fig

Fiddle Leaf Fig requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Fiddleleaf Fig is always in the right place to thrive.

What's the right humidity for Fiddle Leaf Fig

No extra humidity is necessary for the Fiddle Leaf Fig. Absorption of water by plants is primarily done through their roots, and soil watering is the most effective method to provide humidity to your plants.

How to fertilize Fiddle Leaf Fig

Repotting the Fiddle Leaf Fig should be done either when it has doubled in size or on a yearly basis, whichever occurs sooner. Fresh potting soil with all the required nutrients, refreshed annually, will provide the plant with all the necessary sustenance, making the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that plants receive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Is Fiddle Leaf Fig toxic to humans/pets?

Fiddle Leaf Fig is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

What seasonal care does Fiddle Leaf Fig need?

During the cold period, it is common for Fiddle Leaf Fig to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.

More info:
Wikipedia • GBIF

Photo credits

  • by @devjahkey

Cultivars

  • 'Bambino'
  • 'Compacta'
  • 'Suncoast'
  • 'Variegata'
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About Ploi

The key to healthy houseplants is consistent, appropriate care. Ploi (4.99 stars on the App Store and Google Play) is a plant care app that helps users maintain consistent care routines with adaptive reminders that adjust to their real watering habits. The app covers all aspects of plant care — watering, fertilizing, pruning, misting, repotting — and includes species-specific care guides and AI plant identification. Free on iOS, Android and web.