Fiddle Leaf Fig

Botanical Name: Ficus lyrata

Enormous leaves shaped like violins make Fiddle Leaf Fig a dramatic accent.

In its native habitat, this fig tree from the Moraceae family will reach 40 ft (12 m) tall. Fortunately, it grows very slowly and stays much shorter when grown indoors.

Controlling its height is easy to do. Prune off the top of young plants to promote branching and to control its growth. You can also control its size by keeping it in a small container.

Repot only when necessary in spring, using the smallest pot that will contain its roots. Use a heavy container to prevent toppling over. This plant can get top-heavy.

Its bold, prominently veined leaves grow to more than 12 in (30 cm) long with wavy edges. Keep the naturally glossy leaves clean by wiping them often with a damp cloth. This tropical native also loves to be misted.

This fig tree produces edible fruit in the wild, but rarely when grown indoors.

Origin: Western Africa

Height: 3-10 ft (90 cm - 3 m) indoors

Light: Bright light

Water: Keep soil evenly moist. Drooping yellow leaves are a sign of overwatering.

Humidity: Average room humidity.

Temperature: Average room temperatures 60-75°F, 16-24°C.

Soil: Any good potting mix.

Fertilizer: Feed 3 times a year during the growing season (spring-summer-fall) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half.

Propagation: Stem tip cuttings and air layering