A popular indoor tree, the Fiddle Leaf Fig, can be finicky about its surroundings, giving many plant enthusiasts the impression that it’s difficult to grow. It indeed needs the right light to thrive best. Find out all about the Fiddle Leaf Fig light requirements in our guide and enjoy the lush greenery of your Ficus tree as it flourishes in your home.

About Fiddle Leaf Fig

The Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree (Ficus lyrata) is an upright plant with large, emerald green leaves shaped like a violin. This lovely indoor plant belongs to the mulberry family (Moraceae). 

The Fiddle Leaf Fig requires extra care, as it needs well-draining and nourishing soil, balanced watering, and high humidity. In addition, the Fiddle Leaf Fig prefers filtered sunlight and moderately warm temperatures; it doesn’t adapt well to sudden temperature shifts. This plant is best for households without pets, as its sap is mildly toxic to cats and dogs when ingested.

The Fiddle Fig is relatively easy to propagate; you can expand your collection or share new baby fig leaf trees with friends as gifts. This beautiful indoor tree symbolizes productivity and abundance in Feng Shui. It’s also popular for its decorative value, which makes it a favorite plant in interior design. Other benefits include this plant’s air-purifying, noise-absorbing, and relaxing properties, as it improves mood and mental health.

If you intend to grow this charming plant, start by learning about the Fiddle Leaf Fig plant light requirements. This will help you find the perfect place for this tropical beauty in your home. So, how much light do Fiddle Figs need? Find out in our lighting care guide below.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Light Requirements: Care Tips

The Fiddle Leaf Fig has specific light needs you need to meet for healthy growth. Correct light is vital for this indoor tree, as insufficient light can cause stunted growth and other issues.

How Much Light Does a Fiddle Leaf Fig Need? 

How much light does an indoor Fiddle Leaf Fig need?, you may wonder. This sun-loving plant needs a minimum of six hours of bright light daily. Position your Fiddle Fig near an eastern, western, or southern window, where it will receive an even amount of light throughout the day. Choose the place carefully, as Fiddle Leaf Figs don’t like being moved often.

What Kind of Light Does a Fiddle Leaf Fig Need?

Proper sunlight is important for Fiddle Figs. But do Fiddle Leaf Figs need direct sunlight? Despite being a tropical plant, Ficus lyrata prefers filtered, indirect sunlight. Here are some further tips for determining how much light is appropriate for your Fiddle Leaf Fig and choosing the right location to place it.

Can Fiddle Leaf Fig Get Too Much Sun? 

Finding the best light for your Fiddle Leaf Fig can be tricky, but it’s not as difficult as it sounds. Fiddle Figs don’t like extreme temperatures or high sunlight levels. So, should Fiddle Leaf Figs be kept in direct sunlight? Only if it’s gentle morning sun, as direct midday or afternoon sun would likely be too strong for your green companion.

How to Tell If a Fiddle Leaf Fig Is Getting Too Much Sun

Can Ficus lyrata be in full sun, and for how long? Watch for some of the following signs to assess whether your Fiddle Leaf Fig is overexposed to direct sun:

• Brown or discolored spots on the leaves

• Bleached leaves

• Browning and drying leaves

• Drooping leaves

• Leaf drop (if the soil is dry too)

Fiddle Leaf Fig Too Much Sun: Can Fiddle Leaf Fig Recover From Sunburn?

A Fiddle Leaf Fig left in direct sunlight can recover if you notice the issue in time and act quickly. Move your plant to a place with indirect sunlight, and water it thoroughly. Trim any damaged leaves. If your Fig tree has shed some leaves, prune it as little as possible, trimming only severely damaged leaves.  

Can Fiddle Leaf Fig Survive in Low Light?

Dimly lit places are not recommended, considering the Ficus lyrata light requirements. But can a Fiddle Leaf Fig still live in low light? Fiddle Leaf Fig plants can adapt to low-light environments but probably won’t thrive. 

Moreover, you’ll need to take extra care not to overwater your plant, as soil may dry slower in locations with lower light. Be sure to provide a warm environment for your ficus plant, as cold locations aren’t suitable for Fiddle Figs.

How to Know If a Fiddle Leaf Fig Needs More Light 

What if your Fiddle Leaf Fig isn’t getting the light it needs? Here are signs that your plant needs more sunlight:

• Stunted growth

• Leaning towards the light source

• Leggy stems and thinning foliage

• Smaller new leaves or no new leaves  

Fiddle Leaf Fig Low Light: How to Make My Fiddle Leaf Fig Happy

If your Fiddle Leaf Fig looks distressed due to insufficient lighting, try moving it to a sunnier location. Consider getting a grow light if your living space doesn’t have the right spot for your Ficus lyrata plant. You can use fluorescent or LED lights to provide additional light.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Sunlight: FAQs

Q: Can Fiddle Leaf Figs survive in artificial light?

A: Although Fiddle Leaf Figs can survive temporarily in artificial light, they won’t thrive. You can use artificial lights to supplement the Fiddle Leaf fig's sun requirements if your living space doesn’t provide a light enough location for your plant.

Q: How do you fix wilted Fiddle Leaf Figs?

A: Carefully water from the bottom to let your Fiddle Leaf fig soak up the water it needs, and keep it in indirect sunlight.

Q: Where is the best place to put my Fiddle Leaf Fig?

A: Understanding the light requirements for a Fiddle Leaf Fig will guide you in choosing the right place. A spot near a southern window will provide plenty of sunlight in the cooler months. Choose a place by an eastern window to shelter it from the afternoon sun in the summer.

Q: How hot is too hot for a Fiddle Leaf?

A: Avoid temperatures above 95°F; the ideal temperatures for your Fiddle Fig are 60°F- 75°F.

Q: Can a Fiddle Leaf Fig get too much light?

A: A Fiddle Leaf Fig exposed to full sun can suffer from sunburn. Providing a location with partial shade outdoors or filtered, bright light indoors will help your plant thrive.

Conclusion

Once you know the ideal Fiddle Leaf Fig tree light requirements, you’ll easily find the right place for your indoor tree. Indirect but plentiful sunlight is vital for a happy Fiddle Leaf Fig. Also, water it correctly and provide a balanced environment.

Fiddle Leaf Fig trees make an elegant highlight in your interior. Combine this attractive plant with other indoor trees like the gorgeous Money Tree or the stunning Sago Palm to add exotic vibes to your space.