Common Name: Fiddle Leaf Fig
Botanical Name: Ficus Lyrata
If ever there were a houseplant voted Most Popular in the indoor plant yearbook, it would be the fan-favorite Fiddle Leaf Fig or Ficus Lyrata. This gorgeous head-turner has recently enjoyed near-global celebrity status and is adored by plant lovers and interior designers. The Fiddle Leaf Fig can be somewhat demanding. It will thrive in bright indirect light‚ at least six hours a day‚ and loves high humidity. That said, it can tolerate less-than-perfect conditions and do quite well indoors if you allow it to dry out before watering. Periodically replace any old soil in the pot and turn the plant in place to keep the foliage growing evenly.
Light
For your Ficus Lyrata, make sure to find a spot that receives a lot of bright indirect light. This plant requires indirect sunlight for at least 6 hours daily. Also, make sure to routinely rotate you plant so that each side gets consistent sunlight. This will keep your plant upright and prevent it from leaning or developing new growth just on one side.
Water
Let the soil dry out between watering a Ficus Lyrata but try to keep the soil consistently damp if the plant is actively growing. During the colder months, you can cut back on the water and let the top few inches of the soil completely dry out before watering. Watering every 7-10 days will be sufficient. It is recommended that you are keeping an eye on the leaves as a guide to determine if the plant needs water or not. Yellowing usually indicates too much or not enough water, so if you see leaves start to turn yellow, then check the soil to identify the issue.
Soil
All Ficus (especially Ficus Lyrata) love loose, nutrient-rich potting soil. Use a soil medium that can retain moisture but also allows for draining excess water to avoid root rot. Most pre-mixed soils will suffice. Make sure that there is plenty of organic matter, like coco-coir, peat moss, or shredded leaves, and avoid soils that contain moisture retaining crystals. The pH level that your soil should range between is 6.0 to 7.0.Remember, if your soil drains too quickly, we recommend re-potting your plant into a compost-rich soil mixture, with less drainage materials.
Temperature
You can bring your Ficus Lyrata outside during the warmer months. However, if you do this, make sure to bring it back inside prior to the temperatures turning chilly. Never allow it in too intense sunlight, as this can burn the leaves. Expect some leaf loss when you move your plant to a different location This is a plant that comes from tropical climates, so all Ficus houseplants like to be in the warm weather and prefer temperatures to be above 60°F. void placing your plant near any vents, drafty windows, or exterior doors, particularly during the colder months.
Humidity
Ficus Lyrata plants need some extra dampness in the air to thrive. Your plant will not do well in an environment with average or low humidity. The range of humidity should be around 50% to 60%. Keeping up with this range is important, as it replicates the plants tropical and natural environment.
Fertilizer
Your Ficus Lyrata will definitely benefit from being fertilized, especially if the plant is actively growing. Typically, plants push out new growth in the spring and summer, but plants that exclusively live indoors may grow on their own schedule. If you notice new growth then consider using a diluted complete liquid fertilizer, a slow-release fertilizer, or a fish/seaweed emulsion. Continuing to fertilize your Ficus Lyrata year-round (if actively growing!) can keep it looking its best, but do not fertilize during the colder months when the plant is not growing. During the growing season, you should strive to fertilize your plant every 4 to 6 weeks.
Growth Rate
Ficus Lyrata are known to be grow at a very fast rate. In the plants natural habitat, it can reach a mature height of 40 feet! However, most Ficus Lyrata plants reach a mature height of around 3 o 6 feet when grown indoors. Of course, its environment and how well it’s taken care of play a role in how tall your plant will get. We suggest you prune back the stems if you are looking to keep the plant appearing smaller. Always observe your plant to make sure that there are not any adjustments that need to be made to help the plants growth.
Pet Friend or Foe
Ficus Lyrata is toxic to pets! Foe!
Pro Tips
- Avoid exposing your Ficus Lyrata to the direct, harsh sunlight, as it can burn its leaves.
- To prevent waterlogging, use a pot with drainage holes!
- Prune your Ficus Lyrata often to keep its shape and encourage branching!
- You should be rotating your plant periodically to ensure even growth and prevent it from leaning towards the light source.