In preparation for the arrival of my little 4″ figgies, I’ve been reading everything that I can find online… the following is a summary of my reading.
Ficus lyrata ‘Little Sunshine’ is a compact cultivar of the popular Fiddle Leaf Fig, offering a more manageable size for indoor spaces while retaining the striking features of its larger counterpart. This newer variety is characterized by its small, violin-shaped leaves and upright growth habit, making it a fantastic choice for plant lovers with limited space.
Appearance
- Smaller, brighter green leaves with the distinctive violin shape.
- Large, heavily veined foliage growing upright on the plant.
- A more compact growth habit, making it suitable for smaller spaces.
Care Requirements
Light
- Prefers bright, indirect light and can acclimate to full sun.
- Best placed near an east or south-facing window for optimal growth.
Water
- Allow the top two inches of soil to dry between waterings.
- Water needs may vary based on environmental conditions.
Temperature & Humidity
- Prefers consistent temperatures and should be kept away from drafts and cold air.
- Benefits from moderate humidity levels.
Soil
- Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot.
- The soil pH preference (5.5 to 7)
Benefits
- Acts as a natural air purifier, absorbing airborne toxins like benzene and formaldehyde.
- Adds a bold, architectural element to interior spaces.
- More manageable size compared to the standard Ficus lyrata.
Additional Care Tips
- Regularly clean leaves to remove dust and promote photosynthesis.
- Fertilize during the growing season (spring-summer) with diluted liquid fertilizer or slow-release pellets.
- Rotate the plant regularly for even growth.
Comparing ‘Little Sunshine’ to Standard Ficus lyrata
Growth Rate
- Standard Ficus lyrata: Can grow rapidly, up to 1-2 feet per year indoors under optimal conditions.
- ‘Little Sunshine’: Has a moderate growth rate, some suggest it can grow up to 6-12 inches per year indoors under optimal conditions.
Mature Size
Please note that the mature size of both of these trees is dramatically larger when grown outdoors under suitable conditions.
- Standard Ficus lyrata: Can reach up to 10 feet tall indoors.
- ‘Little Sunshine’: Remains more compact, typically reaching only 2-3 feet in height indoors.
Foliage
- ‘Little Sunshine’ produces smaller, brighter green leaves compared to the standard variety.
- The leaves retain the characteristic violin shape but are more manageable in size.
Advantages of ‘Little Sunshine’
- More suitable for smaller spaces due to its compact growth habit.
- Easier to maintain at a desirable size without frequent pruning.
- Provides the aesthetic appeal of Fiddle Leaf Fig in a more manageable form.
Lighting Requirements for ‘Little Sunshine’
- Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Can tolerate 4-6 hours of direct sunlight if introduced gradually.
- Ideal placement is near an east or south-facing window.
Light Intensity
- Aim for light levels between 500 and 4,000+ foot candles (FC) (5,000 to 40,000+ lux).
- If using artificial light, ensure a minimum of 500 FC (5,000 lux).
Considerations
- Avoid harsh, direct sunlight, especially during midday, as it can scorch leaves.
- Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even growth.
- Use sheer curtains to diffuse intense light if necessary.
Adapting to Indoor Conditions
- If natural light is insufficient, supplement with full-spectrum grow lights.
- For indoor settings, place ‘Little Sunshine’ in the brightest spot available, but away from cold drafts.
Signs of Inadequate Light
- Slow growth (less than 2-4 inches per month) may indicate insufficient light.
- Leggy growth or leaf drop can occur if consistently deprived of ample light.
Using Grow Lights for ‘Little Sunshine’
- Light Intensity: Minimum 500 foot candles (FC), ideally 800-4,000+ FC (5,000-40,000+ lux).
- Duration: At least 6-8 hours per day, optimally 8-12 hours per day.
- Best Practices:
- Position the grow light 8-16 inches above your plant.
- Use full-spectrum LED grow lights for energy efficiency.
- Monitor your plant’s response and adjust as needed.
While ‘Little Sunshine’ can tolerate lower light conditions, providing adequate light will promote healthier growth and prevent issues like leggy stems or leaf drop. If using a light meter, aim for at least 500 FC (5,000 lux), but ideally between 500-4,000+ FC (5,000-40,000+ lux) for optimal growth.
Ficus lyrata ‘Little Sunshine’ offers the beauty and elegance of the traditional Fiddle Leaf Fig in a more compact and manageable form, making it an excellent choice for plant enthusiasts looking for a striking yet space-efficient houseplant.