Plants/Advanced
Fiddle Leaf Fig
Ficus lyrata
The fiddle leaf fig has a reputation for drama, but most problems come down to two things: it hates being moved, and it hates soggy roots. Give it a bright, stable spot and a strict watering rhythm and it becomes a graceful indoor tree.
Choose the sunniest room in your home — an east or south window a metre or two away is ideal. Rotate a quarter turn every couple of weeks so it grows evenly, and dust the leaves monthly with a damp cloth so they can breathe.
Common problems
Brown spots in the centre of leaves
Classic root rot from overwatering. Check the roots and let the soil dry between waterings.
Dropped leaves after a move
Stress reaction. Keep the plant in one bright spot and give it 2–4 weeks to adjust before repotting.
Full guide: Drooping and Wilting →Pale, weak new growth
Under-lit. Move it into brighter, indirect light and feed monthly during spring and summer.
Questions, answered
Why is my fiddle leaf fig dropping leaves?+
Usually stress from a location change, cold draughts, or inconsistent watering. Stabilise its environment and wait.
How much light does a fiddle leaf fig need?+
As much bright indirect light as you can give it, plus a little gentle morning sun.
How do I make my fiddle leaf fig branch?+
Prune the top or notch the trunk above a bud once the plant is healthy and actively growing.