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Indoor plant care

Fiddle Leaf Fig

Ficus lyrata

• LightFiddle Leaf Fig needs bright indirect light at 150 to 250…
• WaterDuring active growth, water Fiddle Leaf Fig when the top…
• ToxicityToxic to pets
• Mature sizeIndoors, it can grow 6 to 10 ft / 1

Fiddle Leaf Fig is an upright, single-stemmed indoor tree with large, glossy leaves. Their broad shape narrows through the middle, resembling a fiddle. Deep green foliage and a strong vertical form make it a dramatic floor plant. It suits experienced growers who can provide consistent light, careful watering, stable warmth, and enough room for its broad canopy.

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Care data checked 25 September 2026 · Dany · A-Z Plants

Light requirements

Fiddle Leaf Fig needs bright indirect light at 150 to 250 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹. A PAR meter or PAR meter app can check this PPFD range.

• Place it about 5 ft / 1.5 m from a south, west, or east-facing window.
• The leaves should not have a direct view of the sky. Filter unavoidable direct sunlight with a sheer curtain.
• Too much sun can scorch the broad leaves, especially after a sudden move.
• Too little light leads to slow growth, leaf loss, and a sparse canopy. Rotate the pot regularly for balanced growth.

Watering

During active growth, water Fiddle Leaf Fig when the top quarter of the soil is dry. In winter, wait until the top half has dried. Test several depths with a knitting needle or chopstick.

• Use room temperature rainwater, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water.
• Water thoroughly until excess runs through the drainage holes. Let the pot drain completely before returning it to a saucer or decorative planter.
• Soil that stays wet can cause root rot and leaf decline.
• Waiting too long may produce drooping leaves and crispy brown edges. A pot with drainage holes is essential.

Soil

Fiddle Leaf Fig needs a rich, airy mix. Combine 2 parts organic all-purpose potting mix with 1 part Bark and 1 part Biochar. For a DIY blend, use 1 part Coir, 1 part Pumice, 1 part Bark, and 1 part Biochar. Top dress with Worm Castings and provide unrestricted drainage.

Feeding

Apply an organic all-purpose fertilizer every 2 to 4 weeks from March to October. Follow the labeled strength and feed only moist soil. Do not overfertilize Fiddle Leaf Fig, since excess salts may damage its roots. Pause regular feeding through winter.

Temperature & humidity

Fiddle Leaf Fig prefers 60 to 85 °F / 16 to 29 °C. Keep it away from cold drafts, hot vents, and sudden temperature changes. Its ideal humidity range is 40 to 65%. Stable, moderate humidity helps prevent dry edges on the large leaves.

What to expect

Fiddle Leaf Fig reaches maturity in about 3 to 5 years. Indoors, it can grow 6 to 10 ft / 1.8 to 3 m tall and spread 3 to 6 ft / 0.9 to 1.8 m. Growth is moderate when warmth, light, and watering remain consistent.

Varieties & cultivars

• Ficus lyrata ‘Bambino’: Smaller leaves and a compact habit make this form suitable for limited spaces.
• Ficus lyrata ‘Variegata’: Creamy-white variegation marks the leaves. It needs more light than a regular Fiddle Leaf Fig.
• Ficus lyrata ‘Moonbeam’: New foliage opens light green and becomes darker as it matures.
• Ficus lyrata ‘Niger’: Very dark green leaves appear almost black and have burgundy undersides.