Ficus Lyrata Plant Care and Pictures

Fiddle Leaf Fig

Difficulty

Intermediate

Size

Large

Soil

Well Draining Soil

Water

Allow top 1-2 inches to dry out between waterings

Light

✗ Low Light
✓ Medium to High Light
✓ Direct Sunlight

Temperature

18-24 °C
65-75 °F

Toxicity (Leafs)

Cats - Toxic
Dogs - Toxic
Humans - Toxic

Humidity

Ideally
40 - 80 %

Propagation

Stem Cuttings

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Ficus Lyrata Plant Care Guide

Ficus Lyrata is a popular evergreen tree with large, glossy, Leaves.

It´s violin ‐or lyre- shaped leaves make a bold statement in any indoor space. Its sculptural form and dramatic foliage lend a tropical, modern feel to living rooms, offices, and other interior areas.

Common Name(s)

– Fiddle Leaf Fig
– Banjo Fig
– Fiddle‐Leaved Fig Tree
– Lyre Leaf Fig Tree
– Lyre‐Leaved Fig Tree

Latin Name

Ficus lyrata

Family

Moraceae (the Mulberry and Fig family)

Country of Origin

Ficus Lyrata is a native to Western Africa including countries such as Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria, and others in the region.

Varieties

– Standard Ficus Lyrata
– Ficus Lyrata ‘Bambino’ – A compact, dwarf form
– Ficus Lyrata ‘Compacta’ – A slightly smaller, bushier version
– Ficus Lyrata ‘Variegata’ – which displays striking splashes of cream or white on its leaves)

Care Rating

Intermediate.

It requires specific attention to light, water, and humidity, making it moderately challenging for beginners but rewarding with proper care.

Mature Size

Indoors, it typically reaches a height of approximately 100–300 cm (39–118 inches) with a width of about 50–150 cm (20–59 inches), though size can vary based on growing conditions and pruning.

Watering Needs

Allow the top soil to dry out between waterings.

Allow the top 2-5 cm (1-2 inches) of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering (a less common problem) can cause leaf browning.

Ideal Humidity Levels

Approximately 40%–60% relative humidity is best, though the plant can adapt to slightly lower levels with gradual acclimation

Ideal Temperature Levels

The ideal range is 18°C–24°C (65°F–75°F); temperatures much below 15°C (59°F) or sudden fluctuations can stress the plant

Light Needs

High – Ficus lyrata thrives in bright, indirect light. It originates from tropical rainforests, so it needs ample light to maintain its glossy, vibrant leaves. Direct sunlight can scorch the foliage, while low light may slow growth

Light Requirements in ft-c: Aim for an environment offering roughly 1,000–2,000 foot-candles of light, which is typically achieved near a large, bright window with filtered sunlight

Recommended Soil Mix

Use a well-draining, aerated potting mix that blends quality indoor potting soil with perlite or coarse sand and a bit of organic matter. This mix provides adequate moisture retention while ensuring excess water drains away to prevent root rot

Toxicity

Ficus lyrata is toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. Its sap can cause skin irritation and, if ingested, may lead to oral and gastrointestinal discomfort. Handle with care and keep out of reach of pets and small children

Propagation Method

It is best propagated via stem cuttings—either rooting them in water or directly in a well-draining soil mix. Air layering is also an effective method. Ensure each cutting has several nodes, and allow sufficient time for roots to develop before potting the new plant