Fiddle-Leaf Fig / Banjo Fig
Ficus lyrata
description
Fiddle-Leaf Fig is a statement indoor tree with very large violin-shaped leaves.
benefits
- Suitable for containers
warnings
- Toxic to cats
- Toxic to dogs
How to care for Fiddle-Leaf Fig
sunlight
In West African tropical forests, Fiddle-Leaf Figs grow in bright, filtered light. Give yours a well-lit spot indoors, with sunlight softened by a sheer curtain when it is intense.
Bright indirect light
This is the best everyday light. Place it near an east-facing window, or a few feet back from a south- or west-facing window. Low light leads to slower growth and leaf drop.
Bright light with gentle direct sun
A little early-morning sun is usually welcome, especially after gradual acclimation. Avoid hot, unfiltered afternoon sun, which can scorch leaves.
watering
Water thoroughly only after the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry. Fiddle-Leaf Figs dislike sitting wet, but letting the whole root ball become bone dry can trigger leaf drop.
Spring and summer
In bright, warm conditions, check about once a week and expect to water roughly every 7-10 days. Pour slowly until water drains out, then empty the saucer.
Autumn and winter
With lower light and slower growth, watering is often needed every 2-3 weeks. Check the same soil depth first, as a warm room or very bright window can dry the pot faster.
Frequency shifts with light, temperature, humidity, pot size and material, soil mix, and how actively the roots are growing. A smaller terracotta pot dries much faster than a large plastic one.
humidity
Preferred humidity
Fiddle-Leaf Figs come from humid tropical forests, so they look their best with moderately moist air. Most homes are fine at 40-60%, but prolonged air below 40% can lead to crisp brown leaf edges, curling, or dry new growth.
How to increase humidity
- Group plants together or use a humidifier nearby, especially during the heating season.
- Use a hygrometer to check the room rather than relying on occasional misting.
temperature
Preferred temperature
Winter minimum
Native to warm tropical West Africa, Fiddle-Leaf Fig prefers steady indoor warmth. It can tolerate brief warmer spells, but cool conditions slow growth and can trigger leaf drop.
nutrition
March - August
Feed about once a month while the plant is making new leaves, using a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half the label strength. Apply it to already moist soil. Stop feeding in autumn and winter unless it is actively growing in strong light.
Nitrogen
Nitrogen supports the large green leaves. Regular light feeding is enough - do not increase fertilizer to correct pale leaves caused by low light or root stress.
Potassium
Potassium supports sturdy growth and overall plant function. A balanced fertilizer supplies it alongside other essential nutrients.
soil
Rich, airy, fast-draining soil
Fiddle-Leaf Fig roots need moisture without staying waterlogged. Use a quality indoor potting mix loosened with perlite, pumice, or fine orchid bark so excess water can drain and air can reach the roots.
pH 6,0 - 7,0
This is slightly acidic to neutral, a range most houseplant mixes naturally provide. Choose fresh, peat- or coco-based potting mix and avoid repeatedly using very alkaline tap water if leaves show persistent nutrient problems.