A Ficus Lyrata, or as it’s commonly called a Fiddle Leaf Fig plant, has large wide leathery leaves that resemble a violin or fiddle. These dark green, hard leaves are over a foot long and grow on woody stems. The Ficus Lyrata, native to Australia, Melanesia, and Southern Asia, is one of the easier ficus trees to care for. It can be small enough to use as a table plant or large enough to be used as an indoor tree.
A Fiddle Leaf Fig requires bright, indirect light. In low light, new leaves are small and mature leaves may fall off. Turn frequently to keep a Ficus Lyrata from growing toward the light and becoming lop-sided. Too much bright light causes the leaves to fade.
A Fiddle Leaf Fig requires less water than other ficus trees. Allow the top 50% of the soil to dry out and the leaves to become soft and flexible before watering. Keep the leaves dry and water off of the large fiddle shaped leaves to prevent mold. Too much water and water on the leaves can also cause ugly brown spots on the leaves.
Fiddle Leaf Fig trees do well in temperatures between 60°-80°F (15.6°- 26.7°C). Keep all types of ficus trees away from air conditioners, cold drafts, and heating vents. Intense cold or heat causes leaf drop.
This plant does well in normal household humidity through it prefers higher humidity.
The broad leaves of a Fiddle Leaf Fig attract Mealy Bugs, thrip, whitefly, spider mites, and Aphids. Spray every other week with warm soapy water to discourage these pests. Spraying a Fiddle Leaf Fig also keeps the large leaves dust free and clean so they can absorb more light. Dry leaves after spraying to prevent bacterial infections.
Fiddle Leaf Fig plants, like all ficus plants, like being root-bound in small pots.
