Fiddle Leaf Fig Care Guide
Ficus lyrata
The architectural statement plant — dramatic, demanding, and deeply rewarding when its specific needs are met consistently.
Temperature
16–24°C
Humidity
30–65% RH
VPD Target
0.8–1.5 kPa
Difficulty
Intermediate
Light
Needs 6+ hours of bright light. A south-facing window with filtered light is ideal. The Fiddle Leaf Fig's biggest enemy is inconsistency — never move it once it's settled in a spot it likes. Rotation for even growth should be slow (quarter turn per month maximum).
Watering
The most common cause of Fiddle Leaf Fig death is inconsistent watering. Water thoroughly every 7 days in a strict schedule — more than temperature or humidity, consistency is the critical variable. Empty the drainage saucer within 30 minutes of watering.
VPD Target (NIH-01)
Ideal VPD: 0.8–1.5 kPa. This species has low tolerance for extremes. A VPD above 1.8 kPa will trigger brown patches on leaf edges within 48 hours. NIH-01 catches VPD excursions before leaf damage occurs.
Humidity & Temperature
Moderate humidity (30–65% RH) is acceptable. Cold draughts are lethal — keep away from air conditioning vents and exterior doors in winter. The Fiddle Leaf Fig's root system is extremely sensitive to temperature drops below 16°C.
Troubleshooting
Brown spots in the middle of leaves: root rot (overwatering). Brown crispy edges: too much direct sun or VPD too high. Yellow leaves: overwatering or poor drainage. Leaf drop: temperature shock or relocation stress.