Ficus lyrata Plant Care

Learn All About Ficus lyrata Plant Care with our Guide

Ficus lyrata is a popular indoor tree native to tropical parts of Africa. Known for its distinctive veiny leaves, the fiddle leaf can grow quickly if conditions are right. Lots of indirect sunlight with stable temperature and moisture levels will keep the fiddle leaf happy.

Caring for your Ficus lyrata

Ficus lyrata Sunlight

Ficus lyrata is best placed in bright indirect sunlight, although they can tolerate a little direct sun and some shade. Turn your Ficus lyrata regularly to ensure even growth. If your plant has brown spots on the leaves, it is probably getting too much direct sunlight.

Ficus lyrata Soil & Nutrients

You can use any well-draining potting mix for your Ficus lyrata. Use a half-strength liquid fertiliser monthly during the growing season (May to August).

Ficus lyrata Water

Ficus lyrata like a moderate amount of water. In the spring and summer wait until the top few centimetres of soil are dry before watering, and reduce watering in the autumn and winter. Wilting and dull leaves are a sign of being underwater. To avoid root rot caused by overwatering, make sure the plant is never sat in water and that its container drains well.

Ficus lyrata Climate & Humidity

A typical household environment will suit your Ficus lyrata, but extra humidity is preferable to dry spots, so avoid putting your plant too close to a radiator or vent.

Ficus lyrata Maintenance

Your Ficus lyrata will appreciate a trim every now and then. Prune any damaged leaves or unwanted growth a couple of centimetres away from the trunk. It is good practice to re-pot your Ficus lyrata or replace the top few centimetres of soil in the spring.