fiddle-leaf fig

Also known as: fiddle-leaf fig; banjo fig

A robust evergreen tree to 5m or more, with glossy dark green, obovate or fiddle-shaped leaves to 45cm in length, the veins impressed above; flowers and fruits not seen on container-grown plants

Scientific classification

Species: fiddle-leaf fig (Ficus lyrata)
Genus: Ficus
Family: Moraceae

Skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Toxicity: Conservatory Greenhouse
Plant type: 4-8 metres
Height: 1-1.5 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Bushy
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
Season of interest: Full sun
Sunlight: 18 – 24 °C
Ideal temperature

fiddle-leaf fig pictures

Distribution of fiddle-leaf fig

Distribution map

Tropical W and C Africa

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Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling

Quick identification of fiddle-leaf fig

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fiddle-leaf fig care guide

Water when top 2-3 inches of soil are dry
Watering: Full sun
Sunlight: 18 – 24 °C
Ideal temperature

Watering

Water when top 2-3 inches of soil are dry

Fertilizing

Monthly during growing season

Pruning

Little pruning is needed. Remove diseased, damaged, crowded or crossing shoots and unwanted growth. Timing depends on the plant: generally late winter or early spring; plants prone to bleeding and deciduous magnolias need different timing, and deciduous azaleas and lilacs are pruned after flowering.

Propagation

Propagate by seed, leaf-bud or semi-hardwood cuttings

Growing

Grow outdoors in humus-rich moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade with protection from wind in a frost-free area. Grow under glass in loam-based compost in full or filtered light

More growing and care information →