Baby Lyrata DEAL - 5 Plants 6cm Pot House Plants

🌿 Ficus lyrata

Ficus lyrata, commonly known as the Fiddle Leaf Fig, is one of the most iconic and sculptural houseplants, beloved for its dramatic, violin-shaped leaves and its potential to grow into an impressive indoor tree. Native to the tropical lowlands of western Africa, it naturally grows beneath the forest canopy, adapting to bright, filtered light and high humidity. Its large, glossy leaves can reach up to 30–45 cm long and are rich green with prominent, slightly raised veins, giving the plant a textured, almost architectural appearance.

When young, Ficus lyrata forms a compact plant with upright growth and bushy foliage. As it matures, it can develop a woody trunk and tree-like structure, often pruned into a lollipop or column shape. It adds instant vertical interest and elegance to a space, making it a favourite in modern and minimalist interiors. Despite its popularity, it can be a bit temperamental if its environmental needs aren’t met — especially when it comes to light and watering — but with a little attention, it rewards owners with steady, impressive growth.

🪴 Ficus lyrata Care Guide

☀️ Light

• Prefers bright, indirect light. A spot near a south or west-facing window (with sheer curtain) is ideal.

• Can tolerate some direct morning or late afternoon sun, but avoid harsh midday rays which may scorch the leaves.

• Will drop leaves in low light conditions or if frequently moved.

💧 Watering

• Water when the top 5–7 cm of soil feels dry.

• Use the “soak and drain” method: water thoroughly until it drains from the base, then allow excess water to escape completely.

• In winter, reduce frequency but do not allow the root ball to dry out completely.

• Avoid overwatering — root rot is the most common cause of decline in Fiddle Leaf Figs.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Thrives in temperatures between 18–25°C.

• Protect from cold draughts, radiators, and rapid temperature shifts.

• Prefers moderate to high humidity (above 50%). In dry homes, increase humidity using:

  • A pebble tray

  • A humidifier

  • Occasional misting (avoid misting directly onto young leaves to prevent spotting)

🌱 Soil

• Use a well-draining indoor potting mix with some bark or perlite for aeration.

• A peat-free, loamy blend is ideal to prevent compaction and maintain oxygen around the roots.

🔁 Feeding

• Feed every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring–early autumn) with a balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength.

• Hold off on fertilising in late autumn and winter when the plant’s growth slows down.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Prune to shape the plant, remove damaged leaves, or encourage branching.

• New leaves emerge from the top; avoid trimming the crown unless shaping is needed.

• Wipe leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks to remove dust and improve photosynthesis.

• Rotate the plant 90° every couple of weeks to promote even growth.

🌿 Repotting

• Repot every 1–2 years in spring, or when roots start circling the pot or emerging from drainage holes.

• Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one to prevent overwatering.

🌱 Propagation

• Can be propagated from stem cuttings, although success requires warmth and patience.

• Use rooting hormone and place the cutting in water or moist soil, ideally in a propagation box or covered container to retain humidity.

🐾 Pet Safety

• Toxic to pets and humans if ingested (causes irritation and stomach upset).

• The sap can be mildly irritating to skin; wear gloves when pruning.