Luchtzuiverende Plant van de Maand augustus 2026

What is the Ficus Lyrata?

The Ficus Lyrata is a popular houseplant known for its easy care and air-purifying qualities. With its large, glossy leaves, it creates a bold focal point in any space, while at the same time helping to improve indoor air quality.

De Ficus Lyrata heeft als bijnaam ‘Vioolbladplant’. Deze naam is ontstaan door de bijzondere vorm van zijn bladeren, die wel wat weghebben van een viool. Daarnaast heeft de plant eigenlijk nog een tweede bijnaam, namelijk ’tabaksplant’. Deze naam is ontstaan doordat de grote bladeren vroeger gebruikt werden voor het rollen van sigaren. De bladeren werden gedroogd en vervolgens gebruikt voor de buitenkant van de sigaren.

The Ficus Lyrata belongs to the Moraceae family and is related to other well-known ficus species such as Ficus elastica (rubber plant), Ficus Benjamina (weeping fig), and Ficus Botanic. Within the Air So Pure assortment, only the Ficus Lyrata is included, as it stands out for its strong air-purifying performance. assortment vind je alleen de Ficus Lyrata, omdat deze plant van alle Ficus-soorten het sterkst is in het zuiveren van de lucht.

Origin of Ficus Lyrata

The Ficus Lyrata is originally from the tropical rain forests of West Africa, where it grows in the shade under tall trees. In its natural habitat, this plant can grow into an impressive tree as tall as 12 meters. The conditions in the rainforests of countries such as Cameroon and Sierra Leone offer the perfect combination of heat, humidity and filtered sunlight, which are essential for the growth and flowering of Ficus Lyrata.

Today, this plant is loved worldwide and has adapted well to indoor environments, allowing everyone to enjoy its air-purifying benefits. It fits easily into almost any interior style, whether bohemian, classic, modern, or minimalist. It is also well suited for offices and classrooms, thanks to its easy care.

Grower of Ficus

Air So Pure's Ficus Lyrata is grown by our member Forever Plants Group. They grow Ficus Lyrata in 2 different varieties and 5 pot sizes, from 60cm tall to up to 180cm tall! Forever Plants' nursery can be found in Honselersdijk, the Netherlands. Besides the Ficus Lyrata, they grow many other species, including the air-purifying Areca, Dracaena, Monstera and Strelitzia.

Care tips for Ficus Lyrata

Fortunately, the Ficus lyrata is very easy to care for! No wonder it’s often used in public spaces or offices: it requires very little attention. Still, there are a few things to keep in mind when caring for the Ficus lyrata.

• Light: The Ficus Lyrata likes bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, while too little light can cause leaf loss.
• Water: Keep the soil slightly moist, but avoid standing the plant in water. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
  • When should you water it? Water the Ficus when the top layer of soil has dried out a bit. You can check this by inserting your finger into the potting soil a few centimeters deep. Does it feel very dry? Then it’s time to water it! Does it still feel moist? Then wait a little longer before watering.
  • In any case, it is important that the plant’s roots do not sit in a pool of water. This can cause the roots to rot, which will also cause the leaves to fall off.
• Temperature: This plant thrives in room temperatures between 18–24 degrees Celsius. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations. The Ficus Lyrata also prefers high humidity, so regular misting can help.

Are the leaves turning brown? Brown leaves can have several causes:

1. Too little or too much water: Geef de Ficus Lyrata kleine beetjes water, zodat de grond een beetje vochtig blijft. Geef dus niet in één keer een hele scheut water. Hoeveel water is afhankelijk van meerdere factoren, zoals de standplaats en temperatuur.
2. Low humidity: De Ficus Lyrata houdt van een hoge luchtvochtigheid. Bij te droge lucht kunnen de bladeren uitdrogen. Regelmatig water sproeien helpt dan de luchtvochtigheid te verhogen.
3. Changing location too often: The Ficus Lyrata is sensitive to stress and changes. It is therefore important not to move the plant too often. When the plant is moved to a new location, it will always need some time to adjust. As a result, it may lose some leaves. You will notice this especially if the plant is new. It is then being moved from a bright, warm greenhouse to a living room that is often darker and cooler.

Is the Ficus Lyrata poisonous?

Yes, the Ficus Lyrata is mildly toxic to humans and pets. The leaves and sap of the plant contain substances that can cause mouth irritation and skin rashes if ingested. It is therefore important to keep the plant out of reach of small children and curious pets.

Waarom is de Ficus Lyrata Luchtzuiverende Plant van de Maand augustus 2026?

The Ficus Lyrata is an impressive plant that makes a statement in any interior. With its large, glossy leaves shaped like a violin, this plant is not only visually appealing but also functional. In fact, Ficus Lyrata is known for its ability to filter pollutants from the air, such as formaldehyde, gasoline and trichloroethylene. This makes it a perfect choice for both home and office environments.

The benefits of the Ficus Lyrata

• Air PurificationThe Ficus Lyrata acts as a natural air purifier. The plant absorbs pollutants and converts them into oxygen, contributing to a healthier living space.
• Stress relief: Research has shown that plants such as the Ficus Lyrata can help reduce stress and improve concentration. Adding greenery to your environment can contribute to an overall sense of well-being.
• Easy care: Ficus Lyrata is easy to care for. This plant does not require complicated "watering schedules," just keep the soil slightly moist and avoid watering at the bottom of the pot. With proper care, Ficus Lyrata can be by your side for years! No wonder this Ficus is the Air Purifying Plant of the Month for July!