ficus lyrata

a little about me…

Ficus lyrata, commonly known as the fiddle-leaf fig, is a species of flowering plant in the mulberry and fig family Moraceae. It is native to western Africa, from Cameroon west to Sierra Leone, where it grows in lowland tropical rainforest. The Fiddle Leaf Fig is total eye candy! This houseplant is lush, tall, columnar and sculptural. The good news is that although finicky at times, it is a tough plant that adapts to its conditions. Once acclimated, it can grow to 6 feet or taller.

s u n

Give it bright, consistent light— preferably by a sunny window. Turn the plant every few months once it begins to lean toward the light.

s o i l

Rich, well-drained peaty soil. Plan on re-potting about once a year because once roots become crowded they will start growing through the container’s drainage hole, causing circulation problems and possibly root rot.

w a t e r

Water only when you stick your finger in the soil and it is dry to your second knuckle. When the time comes, water thoroughly (until the water drains into the saucer) and allow to dry out again. If plants don’t get enough water, new leaves will turn brown and drop; on the other hand, if they are overwatered, the oldest leaves (toward the base of the plant) will turn brown and fall off.

h u m i d i t y

This plant enjoys high humidity, and there are a few ways to achieve this! Your plant will enjoy being misted, placed on a pebble tray, or placed near a humidifier!

c o m m o n p r o b l e m s

Drafts: Make sure that your window is properly sealed. Figs are used to the still, warm conditions of the rainforest. Cold drafts from windows, doors and air-conditioning units may cause its leaves to dry out and drop.

Pests: Figs are vulnerable to aphids, mealy bugs, scale, mites and whiteflies, causing leaves to turn yellow and drop. Inspect the foliage regularly, and if signs of infestation occur, wipe down the leaves with a solution of ½ teaspoon dishwashing detergent and one gallon of water.