Ficus Lyrata
Origin: This native to west Africa
The fiddle leaf fig from the ficus genus of trees is an exciting species to grow with larger leaves than the others from the genus.
This indoor tree type plant grows over 15 metres tall in it's natural habitat and up to 3 metres indoors, although they can be topped to prevent them growing taller. When these plants mature in age and size they make a great focal point within living rooms, hallways, offices or hotels.
Displaying: These grow well in greenhouses and conservatories because they enjoy high lighting conditions. They're the type of plant that looks great near doorways, hallways, fireplaces and other featured parts of a room, although enough light will need to be provided - wherever they are seated.
Flowering: In their natural habitat and outdoors fiddle leaf plants will produce flowers and then fruits, however, indoors it rarely happens.
Care level: I would say this ficus seems to be a little harder to care for than the F. elastica (rubber plant) which is mainly due to it's need for light and it' sensitivity to losing leaves. Worst thing to do is over water. Also, allowing the soil to dry too much with low humidity levels will cause leaves to turn brown and unattractive. It's not quite a beginner plant and in no need of an expert - so most growers will be fine.
LIGHT
A brightly lit spot is needed without direct sunlight, although a small amount of daily sun is good (not mid afternoon sun).
WATER
Water when the top soil becomes slightly dry and reduce watering in the winter. The worst thing to do is to over water (not underwater) because lack of water is easily fixed, unlike the damage from over-watering.
HUMIDITY
Normal room humidity is fine, but increase the humidity during the winter if artificial heating is used within the room.
TEMPERATURE
Temperature:Temperatures between 60 - 75°F (15 - 24°C are suitable. Avoid lower than 55°F (12°C).
FOOD
Fertilize your Watermelon Peperomia once a month in the spring through summer using either a liquid or water-soluble indoor plant fertilizer at half strength. Always make sure the soil is damp before applying any plant food.
ADDITIONAL CARE
Soil: A good draining potting soil is needed which could include part bark and perlite.
Fertilizer: The ficus lyata does not have a strong need for fertilizer like some other ficus trees have. During the spring and summer I would provide the plant with a feed of diluted liquid fertilizer once a month.
Re-Potting: When the plant is young and growing re-pot it every spring. Once it matures you'll only need to replace the top soil each year.
Propagation: It's advisable for the average indoor grower to not propagate these because they're difficult, although it's worth trying. If you try you will need to take stem tip cuttings, add rooting hormone to the cut and replant them. Once planted use bottom heat to improve your chance of success. Air layering is also a method used to propagate these, which is more successful but difficult for most indoor growers.
Pruning: Remove leaves that have seen better days as soon as they start deteriorating (check there is no plant problems). Pruning the top is advised to keep the fiddle leaf at the desired height. You wont need to cut back any branches or leaves unless some begin growing quite straggly and the plant is becoming leggy.
Misting and cleaning: To improve humidity mist the leaves. Also clean the leaves with a soft sponge and water to remove dust and improve the glossy appearance.
