How much light does a Fiddle-leaf Fig need?

Fiddle-leaf Figs thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves, and very low light, which can cause leaf drop.

What is the best watering schedule for a Fiddle-leaf Fig?

Water thoroughly when the top 2-5 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow excess water to drain away and avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Why are my Fiddle-leaf Fig leaves turning yellow and dropping?

Yellowing and dropping leaves can be caused by several factors, including inconsistent watering (both over and underwatering), insufficient light, or sudden environmental changes like drafts or temperature fluctuations.

Does Fiddle-leaf Fig need high humidity?

Yes, Fiddle-leaf Figs appreciate higher humidity levels. You can increase humidity by misting the leaves, using a pebble tray with water, or placing the plant near a humidifier.

How often should I fertilize my Fiddle-leaf Fig?

Fertilize your Fiddle-leaf Fig during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength, typically once a month. Do not fertilize during the dormant winter months.

Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) – Benefits, Growing Guide & Care

Fiddle-Leaf Fig Toxicity

Safety information from plant toxicity data

Toxicity details for Fiddle-Leaf Fig
Attribute	Value
Toxic for humans	Yes 2/5 intensity
Toxic for pets	Yes 3/5 intensity
Edible	No

Sap can cause skin irritation and is toxic if ingested.

Fiddle-Leaf Fig Quick Facts

Key traits and growing stats from plant data

Plant Type: Tree
Plant Category: Ornamental
Plant Place Type: Pot
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Height: 1.5-3 m
Spread: 0.5-1.5 m
Tall Or Wide: Tall
Growth Rate: Moderate
Dormancy: None
Leaf Color: Green
Leaf Type: Simple
Optimal Sunlight (lux): 7000

Care guide for Fiddle-Leaf Fig

Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data

Water

Allow the top 2-5 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot's drainage holes. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Reduce watering frequency during winter months when the plant's growth slows down.

Pruning

Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and size. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves. You can also prune to encourage bushier growth by cutting back stems just above a leaf node.

Use clean, sharp pruning shears.

Propagation

Propagate using stem cuttings. Take a 10-15 cm cutting with at least two leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant in a well-draining potting mix.

Keep the soil moist and the environment warm and humid until roots form, usually after 4-6 weeks.

Repotting

Repot your Fiddle-leaf Fig every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix. The best time to repot is in spring.

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Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · JunPeak fruit · Sep

FloweringFruiting

Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · JanPeak fruit · Jan

FloweringFruiting

Image Gallery

Photos of Fiddle-Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)

Distribution

Where Fiddle-Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) is found

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Distribution map for Fiddle-Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)

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Fiddle-Leaf Fig Names & Synonyms

Common names and botanical synonyms

Common Names

Bambino
Banjo Fig
Fiddle Leaf Ficus
Fiddle-Leaf
Fiddle-Leaf Fig
Fiddleleaf Ficus
Fiddleleaf Fig
Fig
Lyrate-Leaf Fig
Lyre-Leaf Figtree
فیکوس لیراتا

Fiddle-Leaf Fig Taxonomy

Botanical classification

Taxonomic classification of Fiddle-Leaf Fig
Rank	Name
Kingdom	Plantae
Division	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Rosales
Family	Moraceae
Genus	Ficus
Species	Ficus lyrata

Similar Plants

Similar in genus Ficus

Common Fig

Ficus carica

Rubber Plant

Ficus elastica

Weeping Fig

Ficus benjamina

Cuban-Laurel

Ficus retusa

Fiddle-Leaf Fig FAQs

Answers based on plant encyclopedia data

How much light does a Fiddle-leaf Fig need?
Fiddle-leaf Figs thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves, and very low light, which can cause leaf drop.
What is the best watering schedule for a Fiddle-leaf Fig?
Water thoroughly when the top 2-5 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow excess water to drain away and avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Why are my Fiddle-leaf Fig leaves turning yellow and dropping?
Yellowing and dropping leaves can be caused by several factors, including inconsistent watering (both over and underwatering), insufficient light, or sudden environmental changes like drafts or temperature fluctuations.
Does Fiddle-leaf Fig need high humidity?
Yes, Fiddle-leaf Figs appreciate higher humidity levels. You can increase humidity by misting the leaves, using a pebble tray with water, or placing the plant near a humidifier.
How often should I fertilize my Fiddle-leaf Fig?
Fertilize your Fiddle-leaf Fig during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength, typically once a month. Do not fertilize during the dormant winter months.

Fiddle-Leaf FigFicus lyrata

Fiddle-Leaf Fig Care Summary