Ficus Lyrata - Fiddle-leaf fig

Why the Ficus lyrata makes a great office plant

Few office plants command a room quite like the Ficus lyrata. With its oversized, violin-shaped leaves and glossy surface that catches even the most modest hint of daylight, this plant is a sculptural presence in any workspace. Its generous height of 150 cm or more,  and structured silhouette give it an air of quiet sophistication that instantly elevates the spatial atmosphere.

The bold leaves, tinted in a fresh, confident green, lend rhythm to open-plan environments. Their size creates a natural interplay of shadow and light that feels almost architectural. This visual richness is paired with a calm growth habit. The plant grows steadily yet without urgency, making it an unobtrusive companion in meeting rooms, creative studios or reception areas.

In offices with stable temperatures and indirect daylight, the Ficus lyrata performs impressively well. Its origins lie in the warm, humid rainforests of West Africa, from Cameroon to the Ivory Coast, and these roots seem to translate beautifully into the predictability of indoor climates. The plant contains no pollen, which makes it particularly suitable for shared workspaces. With its width of 80 cm, it can also serve as a natural space divider, softening acoustics and creating gentle visual boundaries that feel far more welcoming than partition walls.

Under what conditions does the Ficus lyrata thrive

The Ficus lyrata’s natural habitat is the tropical rainforest canopy where filtered sun, high humidity and an abundance of organic material shape its spectacular leaf growth. Indoors, the plant thrives under comparable light levels where indirect brightness and a consistently warm environment support its structural integrity.

Maintenance

Watering

The plant should be watered in a way that keeps the soil evenly moist while ensuring that the roots do not remain in standing water. It should be ensured that the substrate drains well enough to protect the plant from the risk of root rot. Regular monitoring helps maintain the balance between hydration and structure.

Fertilizing

During its natural growth phases, the plant should be fed with nutrients that support leaf development and vitality. It should be ensured that fertilisation occurs at intervals aligned with the seasonal growth rhythm to maintain both colour and resilience.

Cutting

The Ficus lyrata should be pruned only when required for shaping or to maintain its characteristic upright form. Any cutting should be done carefully to preserve the architectural quality of the plant’s silhouette.

Other Care

It should be ensured that dust does not accumulate on the leaves, as their large surface benefits from consistent cleanliness. The plant should remain in an indoor climate that aligns with its rainforest heritage, including controlled humidity and stable temperatures.

All these care tasks are fully handled within Oxygen at Work’s all-inclusive maintenance package, ensuring that the Ficus lyrata stays healthy, vibrant and structurally impressive without clients ever needing to manage the upkeep.

How much water is evaporated by the Ficus lyrata?

George, Data Project Manager

“Using research, real-life tests, and office air quality data, we approximate the effect of different plant species. Of course, the actual effect can vary depending on things like room conditions and the plant’s overall health.”

The Ficus lyrata is not only a visual anchor in the office but also an active contributor to indoor air dynamics. With its leaf surface of 0.372 m², it participates in natural water vapor release that enriches the microclimate of workplace interiors. A mature specimen of 150 cm height evaporates around 1.9 liters of water per month, shaping a subtle yet measurable effect on humidity levels.

This makes it slightly lower in evaporation compared to a Howea forsteriana of 1.90 m height, which reaches around 2.1 liters monthly, yet the Ficus lyrata compensates through the dense texture of its leaves. These broad leaf blades create a slow, steady release pattern that integrates seamlessly into the office environment.

Stats

• Height: 150 cm

• Width: 80 cm

• Leaf Surface: 0.4 m²

• Monthly Water Evaporation: 1.9 l

These insights are part of Oxygen at Work’s scientific approach to understanding plant performance through ongoing measurements, data modelling and office-based testing. Each plant species is evaluated to ensure that greenery not only looks good but also contributes meaningfully to healthier indoor air.

FAQs about the Ficus lyrata

Is the Ficus lyrata suitable for low-light offices?

The plant prefers bright, indirect light but performs reliably in spaces with consistent ambient illumination. Its adaptability makes it a strong choice for many modern workplaces.

Does the Ficus lyrata improve indoor air quality?

The species contributes to indoor humidity through water vapor release and supports natural air-refreshing processes. Its large leaf surface plays an important role in these interactions.

How fast does a Ficus lyrata grow?

Growth is moderate and depends on environmental stability. In suitable indoor conditions, it develops steadily and maintains its elegant form without becoming invasive.

Does the Ficus lyrata produce flowers?

The plant does not flower indoors, which makes it especially clean and predictable in office settings. Its visual appeal relies entirely on its sculptural foliage.

Is the Ficus lyrata safe for office environments?

The plant produces no pollen and has a calm growth habit, making it highly compatible with shared spaces. It performs best when professional horticultural care is provided.