Fiddle Leaf Figs have become a popular staple of the house plant connoisseur. Their leaves are glossy and attractive. Despite the waxing and waning popularity of some house plant species, we still think they’re worth the buy.
Learning to take care of your Fiddle Leaf Fig can present ups and downs. The bottom line is that Fiddle Leaf Figs need plenty of direct sunlight to flourish.
What Is a Fiddle Leaf Fig?
A Fiddle Leaf Fig is a member of the Ficus family. Native to the rainforests of Western Africa, this shrub has large, dramatic leaves that can add a pop of color to modern homes and apartments. When Fiddle Leaf Figs are healthy they can live for up to 100 years.
No matter the growing conditions of Fiddle Leaf Figs, it’s important to remember its origins: do not keep this plant outside if you don’t live in a humid, rainforest climate. Houseplant enthusiasts in North America should keep this plant inside.
How Much Light Does the Fiddle Leaf Fig Need?
Fiddle Leaf Figs need direct sunlight. Home gardeners find success when they place their Fiddle Leaf Figs in front of a window. Avoid windows that face north, as you want as much direct morning or afternoon sunlight.
However, Fiddle Leaf Figs can be slightly fickle. If they get too much sunlight, their leaves might start to brown. If you notice that your Fiddle Leaf Fig’s green leaves start to turn, consider drawing it out of direct sunlight for a few hours a day to acclimate.
When in doubt, consider the Fiddle Leaf Fig’s origins. In rainforests, Fiddle Leaf Figs thrive in humid air and receive plenty of warm light. Even when they do not receive direct sunlight, they live in bright conditions. If you feel like your Fiddle Leaf Fig is suffering from too much direct sunlight, try adjusting just how direct the light is.
Other Needs
Whenever you are raising a plant outside of its native climate, be prepared to make adjustments and give it extra attention. After all, it is far from home.
In general, your Fiddle Leaf Fig will need plenty of water, though be careful that the roots aren’t sitting in moisture. These plants are sensitive to rot and soggy soil. Make sure that your Fiddle Leaf Fig drains properly by planting it in a container with a drainage hole at the bottom.
As long as your Fiddle Leaf Fig is set to drain properly, watering should be intuitive. Use a good quality soil and regularly test it for dryness – if it’s completely dry, then water your plant slowly and carefully, and make sure that it’s draining.
Are Fiddle Leaf Figs Easy to Take Care of?
Fiddle Leaf Figs are native to the rainforests of West Africa. As you can imagine, replicating those conditions inside an apartment or North American home can be challenging. This doesn’t mean that you should abandon your Fiddle Leaf Fig, only that you should plan accordingly.
People enjoy their healthy Fiddle Leaf Figs because of their big, striking, glossy leaves. As long as you’ve set up a bright growing environment and have planted the shrub in a well-draining pot, your Fiddle Leaf Fig could grow up to 6 feet.
Home plant owners should be prepared to stick it out for the long haul with this species. Commit to adjusting light and water levels and you’ll soon find a happy medium with your Fiddle Leaf Fig.
Conclusion
If you are committed and patient, a Fiddle Leaf Fig can grow taller and flourish in your home. Just ensure that the plant receives plenty of direct sunlight and thorough watering.