Ficus lyrata Bush (Fiddle-Leaf Fig), 8-Inch Pot
Ficus lyrata Bush brings broad, glossy fiddle-shaped leaves and upright leafy growth to a bright indoor space. Prominent pale veins trace each deep-green leaf, while lighter new foliage adds contrast as it develops. This 8-inch nursery-pot offering is a larger plant for an indoor focal point, distinct from our 10-inch bush and dwarf Bambino listings.
Points of interest
- Large, leathery leaves have the recognizable violin-like shape of the fiddle-leaf fig.
- Upright stems and foliage at different heights create a bush-style silhouette.
- New leaves start lighter green and deepen in color with maturity.
- A bright, stable location and careful watering help support healthy growth.
What ships and estimated mature size
One live Ficus lyrata bush in an 8-inch nursery grow pot. The Etsy source describes a plant approximately 2 feet tall or more; height is an estimate, and stem count, leaf count and fullness vary naturally. The 8-inch measurement refers to the container, not the plant height. Original photos show representative growth.
With suitable light, space and time, a mature indoor plant may reach approximately 6–10 feet tall or more. Pruning can maintain a smaller size and shape. This is an estimated mature size, not the size shipped.
Decorative planters, furnishings, additional soil and fertilizer are not included and are sold separately.
Care guide
- Light: Provide abundant bright, indirect or filtered light. Gentle direct morning sun can suit an acclimated plant, but introduce stronger light gradually. Avoid sudden exposure to harsh afternoon sun. Rotate periodically for even growth without repeatedly changing its location.
- Water: Check the upper 2–3 inches of potting mix and the pot’s weight. Water thoroughly when this upper layer has dried, then allow excess water to drain completely. Avoid letting the entire root ball remain bone dry or leaving it persistently wet. Empty any saucer or cover pot after watering.
- Seasonal adjustments: Water less often in cooler, dimmer conditions and more frequently only when the mix dries faster during active growth. An 8-inch pot may retain moisture longer than a small starter pot, so do not follow a fixed weekly schedule.
- Soil: Use a loose, well-draining indoor potting mix in a container with drainage holes. Our Rich Houseplant Soil Blend is sold separately; amend with perlite or fine bark as needed for aeration and drainage. Avoid compacted soil and oversized containers.
- Temperature: Comfortable indoor temperatures, roughly 65–80°F, are suitable. Protect from frost, cold window glass, air-conditioning blasts and hot drying vents. Abrupt changes in conditions can trigger leaf drop.
- Humidity: Average to moderately elevated indoor humidity is suitable. In a very dry room, use a humidifier while maintaining airflow. Frequent misting is not a substitute for a stable environment or proper soil watering.
- Feeding: During active spring and summer growth, follow the fertilizer label for the pot size. Our 2 oz Slow-Release Fertilizer for Houseplants & Succulents is available separately. Reduce or pause feeding during winter or inactivity, extreme heat or cold, and avoid feeding a stressed or freshly disturbed plant.
- Leaf care: Support each leaf while gently wiping dust with a soft damp cloth. Avoid leaf-shine products. Inspect leaf undersides and stem joints for pests such as scale, mealybugs and spider mites.
- Pruning and support: Remove damaged leaves with clean scissors and trim stems above a node to manage height or encourage branching. Keep any existing supports secure with loose ties that do not constrict the stems. Wear gloves and avoid contact with milky sap.
- Repotting: Check roots every 1–2 years. Repot when roots are crowded or the mix has deteriorated, choosing a stable draining pot only slightly larger than the root ball. Maintain the original planting depth and avoid burying the stem base.
- Propagation: A healthy stem cutting containing a node can root in warm conditions with bright indirect light and an appropriate lightly moist rooting medium. A detached leaf without a node will not grow into a new tree.
- Troubleshooting: Leaf drop can follow shipping or an abrupt change in light or temperature. Brown patches have several possible causes, including watering problems or sun damage; check soil moisture and recent conditions before adjusting care. Very stretched growth may indicate insufficient light.
- After arrival: Unpack carefully without pulling on leaves or stems. Place in bright indirect light away from drafts, check the soil before watering and give it time to settle before repotting. Gradually acclimate to any direct sun.
Pet safety: Not pet-safe. Ficus leaves and milky sap can cause irritation or digestive upset if chewed. Keep away from pets and children, and avoid sap contact with skin and eyes.