Care

If you’re considering getting a Ficus Lyrata, also known as the Fiddle Leaf Fig, here’s what you need to know:

Watering

The Ficus Lyrata is a moderate to heavy drinker and can go for over two weeks without watering when using a proper sub-irrigation system. However, we suggest checking it weekly during the first 6-8 weeks and hot summer months. For more information, refer to our watering guide.

Light

Adequate light is crucial for the Ficus Lyrata to thrive indoors, next to watering. The best placement is near a window where the plant can get some sunlight. East-, south-, and west-facing windows are the best options. The plant can also thrive in a room with strong ambient light. If you don’t have good light, this may not be the plant for you, unless you’re willing to move it to better-lit areas frequently.

Nutrition

The Ficus Lyrata likely won’t need to be fed for the first 6 months after shipping, as it uses residual nutrients from nursery production. After 12 months, feed it quarterly with a complete fertilizer formulated for interior plants. If positioned on a porch in the south, it may need supplemental nutrition sooner. Watch for yellowing newer leaves with prominent veins as an indication of needed nutrients. See our nutrient guide for details.

Cleaning

The large leaves of the Ficus Lyrata are easy to clean, and there are fewer leaves than many other interior plants. Simply wiping the leaves with a wet cloth usually does the trick. For spots where something else has landed on your plant, use a mild soapy solution to wet the cloth, then wipe.

Pruning

If you want to maintain the plant’s height and girth, pruning cuts can be made just above any node, which reduces the size of the plant and promotes new growth. You can also trim or snap off leaves that have run their course. Some fans enjoy letting this plant grow in funky shapes.

Bugs

The Ficus Lyrata is not a big target for pests, but scale, mealy bugs, and mites can sometimes appear. Wipe the infested area with a soapy solution to control them. It may take several intermittent cleanings to rid the plant of the pests.

Trouble

Here are some warning signs that your Ficus Lyrata may be struggling:

Leaf drop – If lower leaves start to droop and drop, it’s likely due to not getting enough light, getting too much water, or not enough water. Moving it from one light extreme to another could also cause leaf drop.

Brown leaf margins – This is likely due to not enough light and under-watering.

Brown spots and mushy leaf spots – This may be due to too much water or exposure to cold temperatures.

The good news is that all of the above issues are easily corrected. Recognize the signs early and make adjustments before too much damage occurs.

Warning

The sap from a Ficus plant is poisonous to dogs, cats, and horses. Keep them from ingesting the sap. The sap can also cause allergic reactions for people. If you get sap on your skin, wash it off and wipe the area with rubbing alcohol. If it gets in your eyes, flush your eyes with clean water for 15 minutes, and if it persists, contact a doctor.