Plant profile: Fiddle leaf fig plant

Posted by: Author scentandviolet June 12th, 2018

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Fiddle leaf fig plant of fig leaf plant keeps rising in popularity as an ornamental and house plant. We started carrying fiddle-leaf in a Scent & Violet shop some four years ago and, it sells fast. We have seen a rise in popularity of quite a few plants but, fiddle leaf plant is equally popular among both our residential and commercial clientele.

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(Photo by Mike Marquez via Unsplash)

Fiddle Leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) is a flowering plant from the Moraceae family (mulberry and figs come from same family). Fiddle-leaf fig is an epiphyte (epiphytes are organisms that begin their life cycle on the surface of other plant. They differ from parasites in a sense that they grow on other plants/trees for physical support rather and, mostly do not negatively affect the host. Orchids are another example of epiphyte.) Fiddle leaf fig plant can grow as a free standing tree, usually not exceeding 50 feet in height.

Fiddle-leaf is native to western Africa and grows in low tropical forests. As an ornamental plant, it is mostly grown indoors although it is hardy down to 50 F.

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(Photo by Forest & Kim Starr at Institute for Regional Conservation

How to care for your fiddle leaf plant.

Living environment: Fiddle leaf needs a bright spot with lots of sunlight (preferably morning light). Rotate your plant weekly (one quarter turn each time).

Soil: Peaty soil (In an effort to preserve peatlands, we encourage you to use alternative: combine 2 parts of organic soil, 1 part of Texas cedar mulch, and 1 part of compost). 

Water: Water thoroughly (preferably under the sink), and let it drain. Water again when the top inch (up to 1.5”) of soil is dry.

Leaf care: Wipe leafs on the regular basis (to clean, condition and protect from pests). Mix a solution of 1 part apple vinegar / 10 parts water and add few drops of dish soap. Wipe leafs on both sides with towel dipped in above solution. 

Fertilizing and replanting: fertilize and/or replant once per year. Choose a pot at least 2 inches wider and taller than the year before.

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We would like to thank: 

Mike Marquez and Unsplash for the photo of the fiddle-leaf fig plant and, 

Forest & Kim Starr of Starr Environmental for the photo of fiddle-leaf fig tree