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Ficus Lyrata

The Ficus Lyrata, or Fiddle Leaf Fig, is a bold and stylish plant native to the tropical rainforests of West Africa. With its large, glossy leaves and impressive height, it has become a go-to choice for those looking to make a statement in their office design. While it requires a bit more attention than some other office plants, its stunning appearance more than compensates. In this article, we’ll dive into the characteristics, benefits, care requirements, and design possibilities of using Ficus Lyrata in office spaces.



A picture from a Ficus Lyrata, taken from below, in the beautiful building of the HSG.

1. Origin and Characteristics of Ficus Lyrata

Ficus Lyrata, commonly known as the Fiddle Leaf Fig, is native to the tropical rainforests of West Africa. It’s prized for its large, leathery, violin-shaped leaves, which can grow up to 18 inches long. Ficus Lyrata can reach impressive heights indoors, often growing as tall as 6 to 10 feet. Its bold, upright structure makes it a popular choice for adding a touch of elegance to office spaces.


2. The Benefits of Ficus Lyrata as an Office Plant

The Fiddle Leaf Fig is ideal for offices with ample light and high ceilings. Its tall, sculptural form can instantly transform an office corner into a sophisticated and lush green space. Its large leaves not only serve an aesthetic purpose but also help purify the air, creating a healthier work environment. Additionally, the presence of such a striking plant can enhance creativity and concentration, offering a sense of calm in a busy workplace.




Discover our projects: ↖️ HSG Square ⬆️ Beekeeper ↗️ Oxygen at Work Zurich



3. Plant Caring for Ficus Lyrata

Light: Ficus Lyrata thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, it is important to keep it in a well-lit area as poor light can cause the leaves to drop.

Watering: Water consistently but allow the top few inches of soil to dry in between waterings. Overwatering or inconsistent watering can cause leaf browning.

Humidity: This plant prefers higher humidity levels. If your office air is dry, consider misting the leaves from time to time.

Pruning: To maintain its shape and encourage new growth, occasional pruning is necessary, especially if it's getting too tall for the space.


4. Design Ideas with Ficus Lyrata

Ficus Lyrata works beautifully in modern office environments where it can stand out as a statement piece. Place it in a large, decorative pot to complement the height and grandeur of the plant. It’s ideal for open office areas, reception spaces, or meeting rooms, where its tall, structured leaves can enhance the overall design. Pair it with minimalist furniture or art pieces to create a stylish, balanced look.


5. Conclusion

Ficus Lyrata is a striking office plant that not only elevates the aesthetic of a space but also improves air quality and boosts productivity. While it requires a bit more attention compared to other plants, its impressive size and elegant leaves make it well worth the effort.


 

Curious which plant best suits your workspace ? 🪴 Or maybe you’d like to find out which plant fits your personality? Take our two fun quizzes to see if you’re more of a Howea, Strelitzia, or perhaps a Monstera ! Click below to discover your perfect green companions ! 🤓





 

6. FAQ

Is Ficus Lyrata difficult to care for?

It can be a bit fussy, but with proper lightning and watering, it is manageable.


How tall can Ficus Lyrata grow?

Indoors, it can grow up to 1m80 to 3m.


Can Ficus Lyrata tolerate low light?

No, it needs bright, indirect sunlight to thrive.


 

This plant was brought to you by Lauri

Lauri, one of our most-trusted collaborators.

Lauri has been our Head of Greenery team for years and

is one of our resident plant experts. Whether it’s the Howea Forsteriana, Spathiphyllum, or Monstera Deliciosa, Lauri knows each plant inside and out. You might have seen him on TikTok, where he shares his expert advice to help make plant care easier for everyone. 🤠🍀

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