Fiddle Leaf Fig Care Guide

A Beginner’s Guide to Fiddle Leaf Fig: Varieties, Care, and Availability in India

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Discover everything you need to know about the Fiddle Leaf Fig, including its varieties, care tips, and availability in India. Perfect for beginner plant owners and gardeners.

The Fiddle Leaf Fig, also scientifically known as Ficus lyrata, has become a style statement. It has become a symbol of modern indoor gardening and home design. With its large, violin-shaped leaves and elegant appearance, it’s no wonder that this plant has become desired by many houseplant enthusiasts. Even if you’re not an enthusiasts, this plant, or tree as many refer to it as, still finds a place in the homes worldwide due to exotic appears.

Though if you purchase the Fiddle Leaf Fig just for it’s appearance, not knowing anything about its care, then you better prepare yourself for a world of pain. Though the Fiddle Leaf Fig is indeed a very beautiful plant, and I’m in love with it’s appearance, I must warn you that my love is actually a very fussy plant to care for. We’ll discuss more about this further in the article.

Related reads: Choose Your Indoor Plant Pots Wisely – 8 Different Types

Guide to Indoor Plants For Beginners,

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Anyhow…while it can be a somewhat challenging to care for, Fiddle Leaf Fig is also incredibly rewarding when given the right conditions and care. Trust me, the feeling of seeing it grow under your care is a bliss.

This guide aims to provide beginners with all the information they need to successfully grow and maintain this stunning plant.

Origin and Discovery of Fiddle Leaf Fig

The Fiddle Leaf Fig is native to the tropical rainforests of West Africa, specifically in countries like Cameroon and Sierra Leone. In its natural habitat, this plant can grow up to 40 feet tall, thriving under the humid, warm conditions of the rainforest. I, myself, have four tall Fiddle Leaf Fig trees growing in the park adjacent to my home. I have grown up wondering what this tree is simple because it is breathtaking in it’s full glory. So, anyway, the fiddle leaf plant was first classified in the early 20th century and quickly gained popularity for its unique foliage and striking appearance.

FUN FACT

Did you know the Ficus Audrey is the national tree of India? Compared to the fiddle leaf fig, the Audrey is its more laid-back cousin. This might be a better choice for you if you have a busy lifestyle and have less time to devote. It’s suitable for city dwellers who mainly have filtered light, and it does better in more moist soil. 

The fiddle leaf’s rise to fame in the world of interior and home design began in the early 2000s when it started appearing in magazines and on social media platforms, where influencers and interior designers showcased the plant in beautifully decorated homes. Today, the Fiddle Leaf Fig is one of the most sought-after houseplants, especially among those looking to add a touch of nature to their living spaces.

This is the one tree you want growing inside your homes for sure.

Varieties of Fiddle Leaf Fig

While fiddle leaf fig or Ficus lyrata is the most commonly known variety amongst home designers, there are a few other types of Fiddle Leaf Figs that you might come across once you get to know more about it:

1. Ficus lyrata ‘Bambino’: A dwarf variety, perfect for smaller spaces, with more compact leaves and a maximum height of about 2-3 feet.
2. Ficus lyrata ‘Compacta’: Similar to the ‘Bambino,’ this variety is also more compact but has a fuller, bushier appearance.
3. Ficus lyrata ‘Variegata’: A rare variety with variegated leaves that feature stunning patterns of green and cream.
4. Ficus lyrata ‘Columnar’: This variety grows taller and narrower, making it ideal for corners or tight spaces.

Four Ficus Lyrata Varieties Described

Let’s get more better understanding of the four varieties of Ficus lyrata:

Ficus lyrata Bambino

Description: The ‘Bambino’ is a dwarf variety of the Fiddle Leaf Fig, perfect for smaller spaces or tabletop displays. Its leaves are smaller and more compact, but they still retain the characteristic fiddle shape and glossy appearance. The plant generally reaches a height of 2-3 feet, making it an ideal choice for indoor environments where space is limited.

Growth Habit: The ‘Bambino’ has a bushier and more upright growth habit compared to the standard Fiddle Leaf Fig. It tends to grow straight up rather than branching out, which makes it great for narrow spaces.

Ficus lyrata Compacta

Similar to the ‘Bambino,’ the ‘Compacta’ variety also features smaller, denser leaves, but it has a fuller, more rounded appearance. The leaves are tightly packed together, giving the plant a lush, dense look. This variety can grow slightly taller than ‘Bambino,’ typically reaching 4-5 feet in height.

Growth Habit: The ‘Compacta’ is known for its vigorous growth and bushy form. It can be pruned to maintain a certain shape or allowed to grow naturally, resulting in a fuller plant that works well as a statement piece in a room.

Ficus lyrata Variegata

The ‘Variegata’ variety is a rare and sought-after type of Fiddle Leaf Fig. It features striking variegated leaves, with patterns of green and cream or yellow. These unique color variations add a touch of elegance and uniqueness to the plant, making it a prized possession for collectors and plant enthusiasts.

Growth Habit: The ‘Variegata’ tends to have a slower growth rate compared to other varieties. It may require more specific care, particularly in terms of light, as the variegated leaves are more sensitive to light conditions. The plant’s variegation can sometimes lead to less chlorophyll production, affecting its overall vigor.

Ficus lyrata Columnar

The ‘Columnar’ variety is known for its tall and narrow growth habit, making it ideal for corners or tight spaces. The leaves are similar in size and shape to the standard Fiddle Leaf Fig, but the plant grows more vertically, forming a sleek, column-like appearance.

Growth Habit: As the name suggests, this variety grows in a columnar shape, reaching heights of up to 6-7 feet indoors. It is well-suited for spaces where horizontal space is limited, and it can create a dramatic, towering effect in a room.

These varieties offer different aesthetic and spatial options, allowing plant enthusiasts to choose the best type for their home or office environment.

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Similarities and Differences Between Fiddle Leaf Fig Varieties

Feature	Ficus lyrata ‘Standard’	Ficus lyrata ‘Bambino’	Ficus lyrata ‘Compacta’	Ficus lyrata ‘Variegata’
Leaf Shape	Large, violin-shaped	Small, violin-shaped	Smaller, rounded	Variegated, violin-shaped
Size	10-15 feet tall	2-3 feet tall	3-5 feet tall	6-10 feet tall
Growth Habit	Tall, tree-like	Compact, slow-growing	Bush-like, compact	Slower-growing, upright
Light Requirements	Bright, indirect light	Bright, indirect light	Bright, indirect light	Bright, indirect light
Watering Needs	Moderate, likes drying out	Moderate, likes drying out	Moderate, likes drying out	Moderate, avoid overwatering
Humidity Tolerance	High humidity preferred	High humidity preferred	High humidity preferred	High humidity preferred
Notable Feature	Iconic large leaves	Dwarf variety for small spaces	Dense foliage, bushy form	Striking variegation, rare

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Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Care Guide

By now we have understood how fiddle leaf fig differs from the other ficus lyrata types. The fiddle leaf fig, unlike the other, though similar to the bambino, has large, glossy leaves that resemble the shape of a fiddle, hence the name. These leaves are deep green with prominent veins, creating a striking contrast that adds to the plant’s aesthetic appeal. The plant grows upright and can become a stunning focal point in any room.

People who are somewhat familiar with plant care can enjoy having the fiddle leaf and play around with pruning, branching and propagating it, rather than just placing it in some bright indirect light receiving spot in their homes like a decoration.

If you are interested in pruning, branching and propagation process of Fiddle Leaf then we’ll discuss that separately in other article, but to satiate your curiosity I’ll do a quick exploration of these concepts as well. I will also share links to other sources where these topics are covered in depth.

Light Requirements

Fiddle Leaf Figs thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a window where it can receive plenty of filtered sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves, but make sure the plant gets enough light to prevent it from becoming leggy.

Watering

Water your Fiddle Leaf Fig when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s essential to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Ensure that the pot has proper drainage to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.

Soil

A well-draining potting mix is crucial for Fiddle Leaf Figs. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark is ideal, as it allows for proper aeration and prevents waterlogging. You can also add some compost to enrich the soil with nutrients.

Fertilization

Feed your Fiddle Leaf Fig with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows down.

Repotting

Repot your Fiddle Leaf Fig every 1-2 years, preferably in the spring. Choose a pot that is 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one, and ensure it has drainage holes. Gently loosen the root ball before placing it in the new pot with fresh soil.

Pruning

Pruning helps maintain the shape of your Fiddle Leaf Fig and encourages new growth. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and trim back leggy branches. You can also prune the top to encourage bushier growth.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Bullet Point

• Popular Name: Fiddle Leaf Fig
• Botanical Name: Ficus lyrata
• Number of Recorded Varieties: 4 main varieties (F. lyrata lyrata, F. lyrata ‘Bambino’, F. lyrata ‘Compacta’, F. lyrata ‘Variegata’)
• Type: Evergreen tropical tree
• Light Requirement: Bright, indirect light; can tolerate some direct sunlight
• Watering Needs: Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry; avoid overwatering
• Soil Mix Requirement Indoor: Well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat, perlite, and pine bark
• Soil pH Level Requirement: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)
• Fertilizer Requirement: Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer)
• Type of Fertilizer: Balanced liquid fertilizer (NPK 3-1-2)
• Pruning Time: Prune in spring to maintain shape and encourage branching
• Height of the Plant: Can grow 6 to 10 feet indoors; up to 50 feet in the wild
• Flowering: Rarely flowers indoors; more likely in the wild
• Native Origin: Western Africa, particularly in lowland tropical rainforests
• Life Span: Can live for decades with proper care
• Cost Estimate in India: ₹500 to ₹10,000 depending on size and variety
• Root-Bound Preference: Prefers a bit of root-bound conditions, but repot every 2-3 years

Branching and Propagation of Fiddle Leaf Figs at Home

Why Branch and Propagate?

• Branching: Branching is a technique used to encourage your Fiddle Leaf Fig to grow multiple stems, creating a fuller, bushier appearance. This can enhance the plant’s aesthetic appeal and improve its structural integrity.
• Propagation: Propagation is the process of creating new plants from cuttings. It’s a cost-effective way to expand your plant collection or share plants with others.

How and When to Branch:

• Pinching: The most common method for encouraging branching is pinching. Simply pinch or cut off the top of the stem where you want new branches to grow. This signals the plant to produce side shoots.
• Time: The best time to pinch is during the growing season, typically in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
• Tools Needed: Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears are necessary to make clean cuts. Disinfect the tools before use to prevent disease.

How and When to Propagate:

• Stem Cuttings: Take a cutting from a healthy branch, ensuring it’s at least 6 inches long with a few leaves. Remove the lower leaves, leaving just a couple at the top.
• Rooting: Place the cutting in water or a well-draining potting mix. If using water, change it regularly. Roots should start developing in a few weeks.
• Time: Propagate during the growing season (spring or early summer) for the best success rate.
• Tools Needed: You’ll need a sharp knife or pruning shears, a container with water or soil, and possibly rooting hormone to encourage faster root development.

Tips for Success in Propagation

• Lighting: Ensure both the parent plant and cuttings receive bright, indirect light.
• Humidity: Higher humidity levels can help cuttings root faster, so consider using a humidity dome or placing them in a warm, humid environment.
• Patience: It may take several weeks for roots to develop, so be patient and keep the cuttings in optimal conditions.

Branching and propagating Fiddle Leaf Figs can help you shape your plant to your liking and grow new plants, making it a rewarding part of plant care at home.

Steps for Successful Propagation

Propagating the Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) can be a rewarding process, allowing you to create new plants from your existing one. The most common and effective method of propagating this plant is through stem cuttings. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to propagate a fiddle leaf fig:

1. Materials Needed:

• Sharp, sterilized pruning shears or scissors
• Rooting hormone (optional but recommended)
• Clean water (for water propagation)
• Potting soil (for soil propagation)
• A small pot with drainage holes
• A transparent plastic bag (for humidity)

2. Propagation Methods:

a. Water Propagation:

• Step 1: Select a healthy, mature stem that has at least two leaves. Cut a stem that’s around 6-8 inches long just below a node (the place where the leaf meets the stem).
• Step 2: Remove the bottom leaf, leaving only one or two leaves at the top. Make sure the cutting has at least one or two nodes (these are key for root growth).
• Step 3: Optional: Dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage faster root growth.
• Step 4: Place the cutting in a clear jar of clean water, ensuring that at least one node is submerged.
• Step 5: Place the jar in bright, indirect light. Change the water every 5-7 days to keep it fresh and prevent bacterial growth.
• Step 6: Roots should start to appear after 3-4 weeks. Once the roots are about 1-2 inches long, you can transfer the cutting to a pot with well-draining soil.

b. Soil Propagation:

• Step 1: Take a stem cutting as described above, cutting just below a node.
• Step 2: Remove the lower leaves and apply rooting hormone to the cut end.
• Step 3: Plant the cutting in a small pot filled with well-draining potting soil, ensuring the node is buried in the soil.
• Step 4: Water the soil lightly, making sure it’s moist but not soggy.
• Step 5: Cover the cutting with a transparent plastic bag to create a greenhouse effect and maintain humidity. Place the pot in indirect light.
• Step 6: In about 3-4 weeks, check for new root growth by gently tugging on the cutting. Once roots are established, remove the plastic covering and care for the plant as usual.

Availability in India

Fiddle Leaf Figs are available in various nurseries and online platforms across India. However, due to their popularity, they can sometimes be on the pricier side. Below are some reliable sources where you can purchase Fiddle Leaf Figs in India:

1. Ugaoo: Known for its wide range of plants, Ugaoo offers Fiddle Leaf Figs along with detailed care instructions. Ugaoo Fiddle Leaf Fig
2. Nurserylive: Another trusted online platform, Nurserylive offers different varieties of Fiddle Leaf Figs. Nurserylive Fiddle Leaf Fig
3. Amazon.in: Is famous platform to purchase a variety of things even houseplant, however, better prices will be available in local nurseries than online. Still fiddle leaf is a high end plant and all local nurseries may not have them so Amazon.in for getting fiddle leaf is a good option to explore.
4. Plants Guru: This site also provides various plant options, including the Fiddle Leaf Fig, with nationwide delivery. Plants Guru Fiddle Leaf Fig

Cost Estimation of Fiddle Leaf in India

The cost of a Fiddle Leaf Fig plant in India can range from INR 500 for a small plant to over INR 5000 for a more mature, established plant. The price varies depending on the plant’s size, the variety, and the seller. Dwarf varieties like ‘Bambino’ are generally less expensive, while rarer types like ‘Variegata’ can command higher prices.

Related reads: Choose Your Indoor Plant Pots Wisely – 8 Different Types

Guide to Indoor Plants For Beginners,

10 Hard to Kill Indoor Plants for Busy People,

20 Low Maintenance Plants for Indian Gardens,

Can We Grow Fiddle Leaf Fig Outdoors?

Fiddle Leaf Figs (Ficus lyrata) can be grown outdoors, but several factors need to be considered to ensure their success:

1. Climate: Fiddle Leaf Figs thrive in warm, humid environments similar to their native West African habitat. They are best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-12, which include regions where temperatures typically stay above 60°F (15°C) year-round. In India, they can be grown outdoors in places with mild winters and high humidity, like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and coastal regions.
2. Light: Outdoors, they require bright, indirect light, similar to the dappled sunlight they would receive under the canopy of taller trees in the wild. They can tolerate some direct sunlight but too much can scorch the leaves, so placing them in a spot with filtered sunlight is ideal.
3. Soil: Use well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand works well. Ensure that the planting site has good drainage.
4. Watering: Outdoor Fiddle Leaf Figs may require more frequent watering compared to indoor plants, especially in hot, dry conditions. Water deeply but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
5. Protection: If you live in a region with cooler winters, consider bringing the plant indoors or covering it during colder months, as they are sensitive to frost.
6. Pests: Outdoor Fiddle Leaf Figs can attract pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Regularly check the plant for infestations and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.

Quick Care Overview

• Light: Bright, indirect light
• Watering: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix
• Fertilization: Feed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season
• Repotting: Every 1-2 years in spring
• Pruning: Regularly to maintain shape and promote growth

Care Tips for Fiddle Leaf Fig

• Lighting: Place near an east or south-facing window where it can get bright, indirect sunlight. Rotate the plant every few weeks to ensure even growth.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water deeply and allow excess water to drain out. Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the plant.
• Humidity: Fiddle Leaf Figs love humidity. Mist the leaves regularly or place a humidifier nearby, especially during dry winter months.
• Cleaning: Wipe the large leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and keep them shiny. This also helps the plant to absorb more light.
• Support: As the plant grows taller, it may need support to stay upright. Use a stake to keep it steady.