Ficus Bambino

Ficus lyrata ‘Bambino’ (dwarf fiddle-leaf fig) is destined to be the most popular ficus in the indoor section of nurseries this year. Its popularity is due to its compact size, yet it still has the large leaves that are the signature of big brother Ficus lyrata. Ficus lyrata can grow indoors up to 3m and outdoors as high as 15m. Ficus Bambino, on the other hand, will grow to a maximum height of around 1m and will have slightly smaller leaves tightly grouped around an upright stem.

Ficus Bambino Care

Water – they are native to tropical Africa where they thrive in warm, wet conditions, so water is crucial to growing these successfully indoors. Keep the soil evenly moist, not waterlogged, and don’t leave the plant sitting in water. They also love humidity, so give them an occasional misting in the mornings.

Light – choose a position with bright, indirect light. Direct sun may burn the leaves, and once burnt a leaf will not regenerate. You need to look after all the leaves to maintain the plant’s shape. Temperature – a warm temperature of 16 – 24°C is ideal, and it should be kept out of draughts.

Feeding – feed with an indoor plant food once a month during the growing season, which are the warm months.

Caution: Fiddle-leaf figs are toxic to dogs and cats if ingested. The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalates that will cause pain and inflammation in the digestive tract and on the skin. If your pets like to chew plants, place your fig out of their reach.