VLoveof Nature

Fiddle-leaf fig

Ficus lyrata

Back to the plant library
Fiddle-leaf fig · Ficus lyrata

Large violin-shaped leaves, a stately but somewhat fussy houseplant.

Care and placement

Prefers bright indirect light (near an east window) and dislikes being moved; water when the top 5 cm is dry; sensitive to change, so it drops leaves easily.

Draft mature dimensions

Maximum height (cm): 250 cm · Maximum spread (cm): 120 cm

Things to consider

Ficus latex contains ficin and psoralen: it irritates the gut and skin and is toxic to dogs and cats (ASPCA). Wear gloves when pruning; keep pets and children from chewing leaves.

Unknown evidence does not mean safe. Decorative plants are not automatically edible.

Information is compiled from multiple reputable sources for reference. If you spot an error, please contact us so we can check and update it.

Send feedback

How to grow and care for it

  1. Planting and pot

    Plant in a well-draining pot with a loose mix. Repot every 2–3 years in early spring into a pot only 5–7 cm wider.

  2. Light

    Bright indirect light, near an east window or gradually acclimated to south-window sun. Low light yellows and drops leaves.

  3. Watering

    Water when the top 5 cm is dry, less in cool months. Overwatering yellows lower leaves evenly then rots roots; drought makes leaves droop then crisp from the tip. Flush salts from the pot about monthly.

  4. Feeding

    Balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength monthly from March to September; none from October to February.

  5. Pruning

    To encourage branching, cut the main stem just above a leaf node in spring or early summer. Cuts bleed white latex — wear gloves; it is a mild irritant.

  6. Propagation

    Take 15–20 cm stem cuttings with 2–3 leaves in spring, remove the lowest leaf, dip in rooting hormone and root in a 1:1 perlite and compost mix or in water; cover with a clear bag for humidity.

  7. Pests and common problems

    Leaf drop is almost always a reaction to change: a move, temperature swing, repotting, inconsistent watering, drafts or dry air. Pests: spider mites, mealybugs, scale, thrips — check leaf undersides; use horticultural or neem oil.

  8. For plentiful, healthy leaves

    For a full, large canopy: keep it in one bright spot, water steadily, feed on schedule in warm months and cut the top to branch. Indoors it rarely fruits.