Ficus lyrata

Turn any corner into a high-impact green feature with the Fiddle-leaf Fig. Its oversized, sculptural leaves and clean upright form elevate interiors instantly—perfect for reception areas, living rooms, and meeting spaces. With bright filtered light and a consistent watering routine, it rewards you with steady growth and a lush canopy that looks professionally styled all year.

1. Basic Identification

Common Name: Fiddle-leaf Fig
Botanical Name: Ficus lyrata
Former Name: Not available
Plant Type: Indoor tree / Houseplant
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0035
Alternative Names:
Banjo Fig
Fiddleleaf Fig
Violin Fig
Arabic: مطاط

2. Taxonomy & Classification

Order: Rosales
Family: Moraceae
Genus: Ficus
Species: F. lyrata

3. Origin & Distribution

Native to the tropical rainforests of West Africa, particularly in regions from Sierra Leone to Cameroon. Widely cultivated worldwide as an ornamental indoor plant.

4. Visual Characteristics

Upright growth with a single slender trunk; large, glossy, violin- or lyre-shaped leaves up to 45 cm long; dark green with prominent veins; smooth texture.

5. Size & Dimensions

Indoors: Typically 1.5–3 m tall at maturity with similar spread; outdoors in ideal conditions can reach 12–15 m. Leaf length 30–45 cm; leaf width 20–30 cm.

6. Light Requirements

Bright, indirect light; tolerates some morning or late afternoon sun; avoid direct midday sun to prevent leaf burn; can adapt to lower light but with slower growth.

7. Watering Needs

Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; ensure excess water drains freely; avoid waterlogging; reduce frequency in winter.

8. Soil & Potting

Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter; mix peat moss, pine bark, and perlite or coarse sand; repot every 1–2 years to refresh soil and allow root growth.

9. Temperature & Humidity

Optimal temperature 60–75 °F (16–24 °C); minimum 55 °F (13 °C); high humidity preferred (50–60% or higher); mist leaves or use humidifier; avoid cold drafts and rapid temperature changes.

10. Fertilization

Apply a balanced (20-20-20) liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; reduce feeding in fall and winter.

11. Maintenance & Care Level

Moderate; requires regular dusting of leaves, pruning of dead foliage, and monitoring of moisture; sensitive to overwatering.

12. Growth & Propagation

Propagation via air layering or stem cuttings; select healthy 10–15 cm stem cutting with at least two nodes; root in water or moist soil under high humidity; air layering for larger specimens.

13. Common Problems

Pests: spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects; diseases: root rot from overwatering; leaf drop due to low humidity or drafts; brown leaf edges from inconsistent watering.

14. Benefits & Uses

Highly ornamental with architectural form; improves indoor air quality by removing volatile organic compounds; adds biophilic design to interiors.

15. Toxicity & Safety

All parts contain latex and ficin which can cause skin irritation; toxic if ingested by pets or humans, causing oral irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea; keep out of reach of children and animals.