Ficus lyrata
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Common Name: fiddle-leaf fig
Type: Broadleaf evergreen
Family: Moraceae
Zone: 10 to 12
Native Range: Tropical western and central Africa
Height: 60 to 100 feet
Spread: 30 to 60 feet
Bloom Time: Rarely flowers indoors
Bloom Description: 
Sun: Part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Flowers: Flowers not Showy
Leaves: Evergreen
Fruit: Showy Fruit

Culture

Winter hardy to USDA Zones 10-12. Grow as a houseplant in St. Louis. Easily grown in a soil-based potting mix. Site indoors in bright indirect light or part shade with protection from afternoon sun. Water regularly during the growing season. Avoid overwatering. Reduce watering from fall to late winter.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Native to Africa, fiddle-leaf fig (also banjo fig) is a broadleaf evergreen tree that may grow to 60-100’ tall in its native habitat. It is sometimes grown in the tropics as an ornamental shade tree. In colder climates, this is a popular houseplant that typically grows to 2-10’ tall. It is noted for its large, lyre-shaped, dark green leaves (to 18” long) which resemble the shape of a violin (fiddle). In its native habitat, globular figs (to 1.25” diameter) appear solitary or in pairs on mature trees. Fruit is rarely seen on plants outside of the native habitat. Stems have a milky sap.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for scale, aphids, mealybugs, thrips and spider mites.

Garden Uses

Houseplant in St. Louis area.

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Ficus elastica
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