Ficus Lyrata Care
Everything you need to know about caring for your Ficus Lyrata: location, watering, feeding and tips against brown leaf tips or leaf drop.
Ficus Lyrata Care
Ficus Lyrata care tips at a glance
| Guarantee | Fresh from the grower | |
| Delivery type | Houseplant delivered in growing pot | |
| Latin name | Ficus Lyrata | |
| Location | Bright (indirect) light | |
| Water requirements | Approximately once or twice a week | |
| Toxic | Mildly toxic if ingested | |
| Air purifying | Yes | |
| Maintenance | Medium |
“The Ficus Lyrata loves plenty of (indirect) light. Place it close to a window, but not in blazing afternoon sun - otherwise the large leaves will quickly get brown spots.”
Frequently asked questions about the Ficus Lyrata
Quick answers to the most common questions about water, light, feeding and care for your fiddle leaf fig.
How often should I water my Ficus Lyrata?
The Ficus Lyrata likes evenly moist soil, but not wet feet. Stick your finger a couple of centimetres into the soil: if it's dry, go ahead and water. On average, that works out to about once or twice a week, depending on the season and the temperature in your home.
In winter, your fiddle leaf fig needs less water, since growth slows down a bit. Never overwater in one go, and make sure excess water can drain away properly — if the plant sits in water for too long, root rot is quick to follow.
Can the Ficus Lyrata sit in direct sunlight?
The Ficus Lyrata (or fiddle leaf fig) loves plenty of light, preferably indirect. A spot right next to an east- or west-facing window is ideal. Harsh, blazing afternoon sun can scorch the large leaves, leaving unsightly brown or white patches.
If your plant is too dark, it grows more slowly and new leaves get smaller. So look for a balance: a bright spot without direct sun during the hottest part of the day gives the best result.
Why does my Ficus Lyrata get brown leaf tips or drop its leaves?
Brown leaf tips or edges are usually caused by an inconsistent watering pattern: too dry, too wet, or constantly switching between the two. Dry heating air and drafts can also be a cause. Check the soil first and adjust your watering rhythm before changing anything else.
Leaf drop is often a reaction to change — a new spot, a draughty room or a sudden temperature shift. Don't panic: most fiddle leaf figs recover on their own within a few weeks, as long as you leave them alone afterwards.
Is the Ficus Lyrata toxic to pets?
Yes, the Ficus Lyrata is mildly toxic if ingested. The milky sap in the stems and leaves can irritate the skin, mouth and stomach of both pets and children.
So keep the plant out of reach of curious cats, dogs or young children, and wash your hands after pruning. If you notice drooling, vomiting or skin irritation in your pet, contact your vet.
How do I make sure there's enough humidity?
The Ficus Lyrata originally comes from the humid tropical forests of West Africa, so it appreciates a bit of extra humidity, especially in winter when the heating dries out the air.
Mist the leaves occasionally with a plant mister, or place a bowl of water near the plant. A moisture meter helps you keep a close eye on exactly how humid the air and soil are.
How and when do I repot or propagate my Ficus Lyrata?
Repot your fiddle leaf fig as soon as the roots start growing through the drainage holes, or when the pot really becomes too tight — usually once every 1 to 2 years, preferably in spring. Choose a pot that's only a few centimetres bigger and use light, well-draining potting soil.
To propagate, take a cutting of about 10-15 cm with one or two leaves and let it root in water or moist potting soil. Got some patience? Then a whole new Ficus Lyrata will grow from it.
How fast does a Ficus Lyrata grow and how big does it get?
With the right care, the Ficus Lyrata grows steadily, at about 20 to 40 centimetres per year. Indoors, the plant can eventually reach a comfortable 2 to 3 metres tall.
Want to slow the growth down a bit or make it bushier? Prune back the top shoot in spring — this encourages the plant to form new side shoots for a fuller silhouette.
