Plant Library
Fiddle Leaf Fig Care Guide
Ficus lyrata
By the Plantshop.com Editorial Team · Updated · How we research · Report an error
The designer's favorite tree has huge violin-shaped leaves. It rewards a bright, stable spot and sulks when moved.
Plant profile
- Light
- Bright indirect light, some gentle direct sun
- Water
- When the top 2 in is dry; water deeply
- Humidity
- Average to high
- Pets
- Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA) [ASPCA]
- Difficulty
- Challenging
- Size
- Tree: 6-10 ft indoors
- Growth
- Moderate
Light
Bright indirect light, some gentle direct sun. Rotate the pot every few weeks so growth stays even.
Water
When the top 2 in is dry; water deeply. Always use a pot with drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering. Plants use far less water in winter.
Humidity and temperature
Humidity: average to high. Most houseplants prefer 60-80°F (16-27°C) and dislike cold drafts and heating vents.
Soil and feeding
Use a well-draining potting mix with bark or perlite for air. Feed lightly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength; skip feeding in winter.
Our tip
Pick its spot once and leave it there; moving it often causes leaf drop.
Common problems
- Brown spots: Often root rot from wet soil; also bacterial spot.
- Dropping leaves: Moves, drafts or sudden changes in light.
- Leaning: Rotate a quarter turn each month.
Pets
Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA), according to the ASPCA plant list. If a pet chews it and shows symptoms, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Check any plant in our Pet-Safe Plant Checker.
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