Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)

Daniel Iseli

Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Care

Ficus lyrata Warb.

Fiddle leaf fig care or Ficus lyrata care (Ficus pandurata is the correct botanical name) inhabits lowland tropical regions in nature and is native to West Africa in countries from Cameroon to Sierra Leone.

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Water

Every 7–10 days

Light

Bright indirect

Temp

65–75°F

Humidity

40–60%

What Is the Fiddle Leaf Fig?

Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) belongs to the Moraceae family within the Ficus genus. Fiddle Leaf Fig is native to West Africa from Cameroon to Sierra Leon. Fiddle Leaf Fig is also known as Ficus pandurata, FLF, Banjo Fig.

Fiddle Leaf Fig displays a tree, shrub growth habit, reaching up to 100 inches tall with a spread of approximately 29.5 inches. Fiddle Leaf Fig produces small flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 18 inches.

How Often Should You Water a Fiddle Leaf Fig?

Ficus lyrata requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Watering Frequency

Every 7–10 days

Let soil partially dry between waterings

What Light Does the Fiddle Leaf Fig Need?

Fiddle Leaf Fig thrives in bright indirect light conditions. The optimal light range is 1000–2000 lux. Avoid placing Fiddle Leaf Fig in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Light Requirement

Bright indirect

1000–2000 lux

What Temperature and Humidity Does the Fiddle Leaf Fig Prefer?

Ficus lyrata grows best at temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Fiddle Leaf Fig prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Temperature

65–75°F

Humidity

40–60%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a Fiddle Leaf Fig?

Well-draining loamy soil with plenty of organic matter and sand. Good drainage is essential for Fiddle Leaf Fig to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Do You Propagate a Fiddle Leaf Fig?

Fiddle Leaf Fig can be propagated through stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to fig tree plant care, which shares the same genus.

Fertilizing

Every 2 months

During the growing season

Is the Fiddle Leaf Fig Toxic to Pets and Children?

Toxic to Pets & Children

Mildly toxic to cats and dogs

What Pests and Diseases Affect the Fiddle Leaf Fig?

Fiddle Leaf Fig is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Fiddle Leaf Fig Need?

Fiddle Leaf Fig grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10b – 12b. Native to West Africa from Cameroon to Sierra Leon, Fiddle Leaf Fig is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Fiddle Leaf Fig as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 10b – 12b

Keep exploring plants

Fiddle Leaf Fig is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Ficus genus — compare its care with other Ficus species on PlantoScan.

Fiddle Leaf Fig thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.

More Ficus Species

Other Ficus species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:

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