Ficus Lyrata

Ficus lyrata

houseplant

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

Ficus lyrata, commonly called the Fiddle Leaf Fig, is a dramatic statement plant featuring large, glossy, violin-shaped leaves that make it a popular choice for modern interior design. This tree-like houseplant can reach considerable height indoors and adds architectural elegance to any room. It prefers stable conditions and dislikes frequent moving or environmental changes.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Ficus Lyrata is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Yellow Leaveschevron_right

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Brown Tipschevron_right

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Dropping Leaveschevron_right

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Slow Growthchevron_right

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Pale Leaveschevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Bright, indirect light is essential. Place near a window with filtered sunlight. Can tolerate moderate light but grows best with 6+ hours of bright, indirect light daily.

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Water

Water when top 2 inches of soil are dry. Allow soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Water less frequently in winter.

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Soil

Use well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix. A combination of peat moss, perlite, and bark works well for drainage.

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Fertiliser

Feed monthly during growing season (spring and summer) with balanced, diluted fertilizer. Reduce to every 2–3 months in fall and winter.

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Temperature

Prefers warm conditions between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Protect from temperatures below 55°F (13°C) and cold drafts.

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Humidity

Moderate humidity of 50–60% is ideal. Wipe leaves monthly with a damp cloth to remove dust and maintain shine.

Toxicity

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Toxic to cats, dogs, and children. Contains ficain, which can cause mouth irritation, skin irritation, and gastrointestinal upset. Keep away from pets and small children.

Common Diseases

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Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Fiddle Leaf Fig get brown spots when I move it?

This species is notoriously sensitive to change — new locations, drafts, or even rotating the pot can trigger stress spotting. Find a stable spot with consistent bright indirect light and avoid moving it unnecessarily.

How do I get my Fiddle Leaf Fig to branch instead of growing one tall stem?

Pruning (topping) the main stem above a leaf node encourages branching below the cut. New growth typically emerges within a few weeks during the growing season.