Air-Purifying Plant of the Month December 2025

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.

The plant is often called the “fiddle-leaf fig” because of the unique shape of its leaves, which resemble a violin. It also has a second nickname: the “tobacco plant.” This name comes from the past, when its large leaves were dried and used to wrap cigars.

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 you will find only the Ficus Lyrata, as this plant is the strongest in purifying the air.

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: Water the Ficus Lyrata in small amounts so that the soil remains slightly moist. So don’t pour a large amount of water all at once. In winter, the plant needs less water than in summer. The amount of water required depends on several factors, such as its location and the temperature.

2. Low humidity: The Ficus Lyrata thrives in high humidity. If the air is too dry, the leaves can dry out. Spraying water regularly helps to increase the humidity. We definitely recommend doing this if the plant is placed near a heater.

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.

Why is the Ficus Lyrata the Air-Purifying Plant of the Month for December 2025?

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 the right care, the Ficus Lyrata can be by your side for years to come! No wonder, then, that this Ficus is the Air-Purifying Plant of the Month for December!