The fiddle-leaf fig comes from the grassland and deciduous forests of tropical west Africa and has large, leathery, glossy green, fiddle-shaped leaves, hence its common name. When planting up, do not use pots that are too big, because the roots are better kept fairly restricted. The leaves should be cleaned of dust from time to time using a damp sponge. If the atmosphere is too dry, the plant will be susceptible to red spider mite, which attacks the under side of the leaf. To avoid this, spray the underside of the leaves with a mixture of 1 litre of lukewarm water and half a teaspoon of Ecover washing up detergent.
Health Fact: They don’t just look great, having indoor plants in the home will also remove carbon dioxide and other air toxins and breathe fresh oxygen back into your living space.
Environment: The fig thrives best in bright, high indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight and low light areas. The temperature range needs to remain within the 18 – 27oC zone.
Plant Care: Water moderately during the growing period and sparingly during the winter rest period. Over-watering will cause the lower leaves to fall off. Give standard liquid feed from spring to early autumn.
