Ficus lyrata is a West African tree that resents change more than neglect. Pick one bright spot, rotate it a quarter turn each week, and water only when the top two inches dry out. Sudden moves, cold drafts, and inconsistent watering are what cause the brown spots it's infamous for.
At a glance
Light
Bright indirect
Water
When dry
Humidity
40–60%
Growth
Fast
Toxicity
Toxic to pets
Difficulty
Moderate
Common issues
Yellow leaves
Usually overwatering. Let the top 2" of soil dry out.
Brown crispy tips
Low humidity or salt buildup. Flush the soil monthly.
Slow new growth
Not enough light. Move closer to a bright window.
Video library
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Repotting a fiddle leaf fig without shock
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Low-shock repot
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