Ficus Lyrata

Description

Ficus lyrata, commonly known as the Fiddle Leaf Fig, is a popular indoor plant known for its large, violin-shaped, glossy green leaves. It adds a bold, tropical touch to homes and offices but requires consistent care to thrive.

Care Guide

🌞 Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct sunlight but avoid harsh midday sun. Low light can lead to slow growth and leaf drop.
💧 Watering: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering leads to leaf browning. Use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes.
💦 Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity. Misting, a humidifier, or placing a tray of water nearby can help prevent dry leaf edges.
🌡️ Temperature: Thrives in 65–80°F (18–27°C). Keep away from drafts, air conditioners, and heating vents.
🌱 Soil: Use well-draining, rich potting mix with peat, perlite, or sand for aeration.
🪴 Fertilization: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in winter.
✂️ Pruning: Trim dead, damaged, or overly large leaves to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
⚠️ Toxicity: Toxic to pets if ingested, potentially causing digestive issues. The sap can also irritate the skin.

Common Issues & Solutions

🍂 Brown Leaf Edges – Caused by dry air, underwatering, or inconsistent watering. Increase humidity and check watering routine.
🌿 Leaf Drop – Can occur due to sudden environmental changes, overwatering, or low light. Keep conditions stable.
🛑 Pests – Watch for spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth and use neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.
🪴 Dusty Leaves – Clean leaves regularly with a damp cloth to help with photosynthesis and prevent pests.