Ficus lyrata aka Fiddle Leaf Fig

Ficus lyrata is the fiddle-leaf fig, also called banjo fig. This evergreen tree belongs to the mulberry family, Moraceae. It comes from tropical western and central Africa. Gardeners grow it indoors where winters are cold. In warm climates, it serves as a shade or specimen tree. Its large leaves give rooms and patios a bold texture.

Houseplants grow 2–10 feet (0.6–3 metres) tall. Florida landscape trees often reach 15–25 feet (4.6–7.6 metres). Larger outdoor trees reach 50 feet (15.2 metres). Wild trees may reach 100 feet (30.5 metres). Outdoor crowns can span 25–35 feet (7.6–10.7 metres). Growth is moderate, with an upright, spreading, uneven crown. Young trees have few branches and firm, woody stems. Brown bark flakes when young, then turns smooth and gray. Broken stems release a white, milky sap.

The thick, leathery leaves resemble a fiddle or lyre. They grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. Deep veins mark their broad blades, with pale green undersides. Leaves can reach 1.5 feet (0.46 metres) long. Tiny flowers grow inside the fleshy fig, rather than in open clusters. Fig wasps pollinate them through a small opening. Round fruits grow alone or in pairs on mature trees. Green skin with pale dots turns red as fruit ripens. Indoor plants seldom produce flowers or fruit.

Indoors, give the plant bright light without strong afternoon sun. Outdoors, it grows in sun or partial shade. It needs moist soil that drains well. It tolerates clay, sand, loam, and a wide pH range. Water during growth, but avoid keeping the soil soaked. Reduce watering from autumn through late winter. Established outdoor trees tolerate drought, though regular watering supports growth. Sources place outdoor hardiness within USDA zones 10–12. The RHS rates it H1B for UK conditions. Shelter outdoor trees from wind; weak branch joints can split.

Few pests cause major problems, but indoor plants need checks. Scale, aphids, mealybugs, thrips, and spider mites can occur. Fungal and bacterial disease may also affect the plant. The RHS lists honey fungus as a possible threat. Strong sun can scorch leaves, while temperature swings cause brown spots. Too much or too little water can cause leaf loss. Fallen leaves and figs create litter beneath outdoor trees. Do not eat this plant; it poisons people, cats, and dogs. Swallowing it can cause mouth pain, drooling, and vomiting. Its sap may irritate skin, so wear gloves when cutting stems.