El ficus lyrata, also known as the fiddle-leaf fig, pandurata or lyre tree, is one of the most coveted tropical plants for interior and garden decoration. Its large, shiny green leaves, characteristically shaped like a violin, bring distinction, freshness, and an exotic touch to any room. Beyond its spectacular aesthetic, caring for a Ficus lyrata requires paying attention to a series of details to keep it healthy, strong, and with radiant leaves year after year, whether you keep it in a pot inside your home or grow it in a garden.
Botanical characteristics and varieties of Ficus lyrata
Native to tropical Africa, the ficus lyrata stands out for its arboreal development even in a pot, where it can reach several meters in height in just a few years under suitable conditions. Its leaves are thick, leathery, wavy, very shiny, and deep green, reaching up to 40 cm in length in well-developed specimens. Outdoors, under ideal conditions, Ficus lyrata can grow into a tree of considerable size, although indoors and in containers, its size will be much more restrained.
Among the most popular varieties is the Ficus lyrata bambino—a more compact and manageable version, perfect for small spaces or those seeking more controlled growth without sacrificing the elegant appearance of the species.
Location and light: the key to a happy Ficus
The placement of the Ficus lyrata is decisive for its successThe plant needs lots of indirect lightIdeally, place it next to a large window, facing east, south, or even west, but protected from direct sunlight to avoid leaf burn and brown spots. Too much shade causes the leaves to lose their firmness, the plant to barely grow, and old leaves to fall off.
- Never expose the Ficus lyrata to direct sunlight., not even through glass, unless the plant is perfectly acclimatized.
- You can use sheer curtains or blinds to filter light if your window receives intense sunlight.
- Avoid changing the location of the plant frequently—Ficus lyrata prefers the stability and may react by losing leaves if moved regularly.
Observe the position of the leaves It will help you know if your Ficus is getting the right amount of light: upright leaves and steady growth indicate that everything is going well. Drooping leaves or general drooping are usually signs of too much shade.
Temperature and humidity: warm and stable environment
Accustomed to tropical climates, the Ficus lyrata prefers warm and stable temperaturesThe optimal range is between 15 and 28 ° C, even withstanding higher temperatures for short periods if there is good humidity. Low temperatures or sudden changes can cause massive leaf drop and slow growth.
- Avoid cold drafts and proximity to air conditioners, radiators, or powerful heaters.
- The optimal relative humidity is around 40-60%. If the environment is dry, especially in winter, use humidifiers, diffusers, or place the pot on a saucer of water and pebbles.
- Spraying the leaves with distilled or decalcified water also helps maintain humidity and healthy foliage (do this early in the morning or in the afternoon).
Ideal substrate and pot for Ficus lyrata
The substrate is the basis for a Strong and resistant ficusThe key is to use a mix light and with excellent drainage:
- Use a universal substrate for green plants or a homemade mix with equal parts peat, coconut fiber, and perlite.
- The presence of perlite or coarse sand improves aeration and prevents caking.
- Worm castings can be incorporated to gently provide nutrients and retain moisture.
- Avoid substrates that are too compact or have poor aeration—the Waterlogging is the biggest enemy from the roots of the Ficus.
The pot must have drainage holes at the base. Always choose a slightly larger container when repotting (about 2-3 cm larger in diameter), but not too large, to avoid unnecessary moisture buildup.
Watering: How to water Ficus lyrata correctly
- In warm and growing periods, this is usually sufficient. one abundant watering a week, always checking with your finger that the first few centimeters of the substrate are dry.
- During the cold months or during resting phases, space out waterings (it can be every 10-20 days).
- Avoid excess water and never leave the dish with accumulated water under the pot for more than 30 minutes.
- Use soft water or, if unavailable, water that has stood for 24 hours.
A simple trick: if the upper leaves are facing downwards and the substrate is dry, the plant is asking for water.
Fertilization: nutrients for large, green leaves
During the active growth phase, the ficus lyrata requires extra supply of nutrients to sustain its vigorous leaf development:
- Use liquid fertilizer rich in nitrogen For green plants, diluted in the irrigation water every 2 or 3 weeks in spring and summer.
- During fall and winter, reduce to once every 2-3 months or suspend fertilization if the plant is dormant.
- La Excessive fertilization burns the roots and leaves; always follow the dosages recommended by the manufacturer.
- You can also use slow-release fertilizer in the form of cloves inserted into the substrate.
Pruning, cleaning and branching Ficus lyrata
La regular pruning It helps maintain the shape of the Ficus, encourages the growth of new leaves and allows its size to be controlled:
- Prune overly long or damaged branches or stems in spring.
- Remove dry, broken, or diseased leaves, cutting as close to the stem as possible.
- To stimulate branching, there are several techniques (snipping, pinching the apical shoot or superficial cuts on nodes), which can generate forks and give the plant a more tree-like and leafy appearance.
For young specimens that droop under the weight of their leaves, use delicate stakes to keep the stem upright until it becomes thick enough.
Cleaning the leaves It's essential: dust clogs pores and reduces photosynthesis. Wipe each leaf with a soft, damp cloth or, if the plant allows it, give it a warm shower to remove all dirt and pest residue.
Transplant: when and how to do it
To prevent the Ficus from being restricted in its growth or its roots from suffocating, repot it every 2 or 3 years at the most:
- Do it preferably in spring.
- Choose a pot just a little larger than the previous one and check the condition of the roots. Remove any that are damaged or black.
- Add fresh substrate and water gently after transplanting, without flooding.
Common pests and problems of Ficus lyrata
Although it is a hardy plant, the ficus lyrata can be affected by pests and crop problems:
- Mealybugs, mites and red spiders They are their main enemies, especially in dry environments. Examine the leaves (back) regularly and remove them manually or with potassium soap in cases of light infestation.
- Brown spots They are usually caused by sunburn or low temperatures.
- Yellow sheets and soft, a typical symptom of overwatering or poor drainage.
- Dry ends, generally due to low humidity or cold currents.
- A Ficus that loses leaves massively probably needs better environmental conditions or is reacting to a sudden change of location.
If you experience any problems, adjust watering, check exposure, and improve humidity. If the leaves drop, they won't sprout again at the same point, but the Ficus can recover by sprouting from the top.
Propagation of Ficus lyrata: How to multiply your plant
Propagate a ficus lyrata It is not easy, but it can be achieved from stem cuttings or, less frequently, a full leaf with a piece of trunk. The most effective method is:
- Cut a piece of healthy stem with at least one node and one leaf, using clean tools and gloves to avoid irritating sap.
- Soak the end in water (which should be changed every few days) until it develops roots, or plant it directly in light substrate and maintain high ambient humidity.
- Once the cutting has vigorous roots, transplant it to a larger pot.
It is recommended to try it in spring, when the plant is active and the tissues are more likely to sprout.
Ficus lyrata in pots and in the garden: differences and tips
- In warm gardens, it can reach tree-like dimensions, although it prefers locations sheltered from the wind and direct exposure to intense sunlight.
- In pots, size is controlled by container selection, pruning, and periodic repotting.
- Indoors, it is important to rotate the plant periodically to encourage straight, uniform growth.
Common mistakes in Ficus lyrata care and how to avoid them
- Overwatering: the worst enemy, it causes rot and leaf drop. Always check the substrate before watering.
- Lack of light: causes leaf drop and weak growth. Find the brightest location possible.
- Sudden changes in temperature or location: the ficus benghalensis It's very sensitive to change. Plan your trips and protect it from drafts.
- Ignoring leaf cleaning: Dust impairs photosynthesis and can facilitate the appearance of pests.
- Do not repot: this stunts growth and can suffocate the roots. Repot every 2-3 years.