Ficus lyrata (fiddle-leaf fig) — Bushy

Overview

Ficus lyrata is a bushy conservatory greenhouse in the genus Ficus, part of the Moraceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 4-8 metres tall and 1-1.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 10-20 years. Ficus lyrata grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1B. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse.

About

Ficus lyrata, commonly known as the fiddle-leaf fig or banjo fig, is a bushy evergreen plant from the genus Ficus, which includes about 850 species of woody trees and shrubs native to tropical regions. This conservatory or greenhouse plant grows to a height of 4 to 8 metres with a spread of 1 to 1.5 metres, reaching full height over 10 to 20 years. It thrives in full sun on west- or south-facing, sheltered aspects, preferring moist but well-drained soils of various types and pH levels. It is a low-maintenance plant valued for its winter interest.

About the genus

Ficus is a genus of about 850 species of woody trees, shrubs, vines, epiphytes and hemiepiphytes in the family Moraceae. Collectively known as fig trees or figs, they are native throughout the tropics with a few species extending into the semi-warm temperate zone.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Ficus

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: West-facing, South-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H1B

Plant details

Ficus lyrata size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Conservatory Greenhouse
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 4-8 metres
Spread: 1-1.5 metres
Time to full height: 10-20 years
Suggested uses: Houseplants, Conservatory and greenhouse

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Ficus lyrata

Propagation: Semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistance: Red spider mite, thrips, mealybugs, scale insects
Disease resistance: Honey fungus

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Ficus lyrata?

Ficus lyrata prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Ficus lyrata need?

Ficus lyrata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.