Fiddle Leaf Fig Ficus lyrata
At a glance
- Light
- Bright indirect
- 10000–20000 lux
- Water
- Every 7–10 days
- Top 5cm of soil
- Humidity
- 30–65%
- Tolerates dry air
- Temperature
- 18–29°C
- Ideal 18–24°C
- Soil pH
- 6–7
- well-draining
- Mature size
- 250 cm tall
- 80 cm wide
- Native to
- Western Africa lowland rainforests, Cameroon, Sierra Leone
- Growth
- Moderate
- Tree
Watering calculator
Estimate how often to water your Fiddle Leaf Fig based on pot size, light, and season.
Always check the top 2 cm of soil before watering. Calculator output is an estimate, not a schedule.
Diagnose a problem
Click an issue to see causes and fixes for Fiddle Leaf Fig.
Compare with similar plants
| Trait | Fiddle Leaf Fig Ficus lyrata | Rubber Plant Ficus elastica | Bird of Paradise Strelitzia reginae |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright indirect | Bright indirect | Bright indirect |
| Water | 7–10 days | 7–14 days | 7–10 days |
| Pet safe | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs |
| Difficulty | Challenging | Easy | Moderate |
| Mature size | 250 cm | 250 cm | 180 cm |
Light requirements in detail
Fiddle Leaf Fig prefers bright indirect (10000–20000 lux) . Direct morning sun acceptable; acclimate slowly to prevent leaf burn
A spot 1–2 meters from a bright east or south-facing window usually fits this range. Direct afternoon sun through unfiltered glass can scorch leaves; sheer curtains help diffuse it.
Watering in detail
Water Fiddle Leaf Fig every 7– 10 days during the growing season, allowing Top 5cm of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
Consistent moisture matters here — long dry spells will show up as crispy leaf edges.
